International Economics Cases of Disputes

China suffers first defeat at WTO 2008

China has suffered first defeat at the WTO in a case centred on restrictions on the importation of foreign made car parts.

EU, Canada and US complaint launched in 2008. WTO findings found Chinese practice is protectionist. Under past laws its car makers must use 60% Chinese made parts or pay higher taxes. The WTO ruling says China must end this policy to meet its WTO obligations.

WTO report states it puts foreign made car parts are currently less favourable position than their Chinese made alternatives. The dispute settlement body requests China to bring these inconsistent measures into conformity with its obligations.

WTO based in Switzerland tasked with increasing global free trade and riles on such disputes between countries. China joined in 2001 pledging to open up its domestic market to overseas firms and abide by WTO rules for international trade. Western govs complain China is not moving quickly enough.

US announced in 2007 it was complaining to the US about limits on US goods broke trade rules. Also the US has complained about the high levels of music and film privacy in China.

EU considering complaining to WTO about Chinese restrictions on foreign financial news groups.

China has complained about EU limits on Chinese show exports.

Poor Nations mull trade strategy 2007

The G33 group of developing nations meet in Indonesia to create what they say would be a fairer international trade system at the meeting.

The G33 group of developing nations may agree proposals for agricultural protections and exemptions.

Oxfam has accused the US and EU of