Global Sugar Alliance members are active participants in processes to improve the world sugar trading environment. Members works closely together to ensure the fair and equal treatment of sugar in the WTO negotiations on agriculture.
Global Sugar Alliance to Monitor EU Implementation of WTO Sugar Decision
Published: 06/07/2006 Abstract: Meeting in Geneva, the Global Sugar Alliance agreed to closely monitor EU implementation of the WTO decision that EU sugar exports must be limited to 1.273 million tonnes and sugar export subsidy payments must be capped at ?499.1 million.
Full Article: Meeting in Geneva, the Global Sugar Alliance agreed to closely monitor EU implementation of the WTO decision that EU sugar exports must be limited to 1.273 million tonnes and sugar export subsidy payments must be capped at €499.1 million. Global Sugar Alliance Chairman, Mr Keith De Lacy complimented the EU on the nature and extent of reforms made to the EU sugar regime. “The reforms represent a significant structural shift in EU sugar policy. They will cause fundamental change in European sugar production and should change the landscape of the world sugar market”, Mr De Lacy said. “This will not only provide a boost to world trade, but will be a great benefit to Europe itself, with cheaper sugar for EU consumers, a more profitable sugar using industries and a more competitive economy generally.” However there is no guarantee of success. In the short term the EU will continue to produce more sugar than it will consume. This surplus sugar production must stay inside the EU. “There must be no exports of the surplus sugar”, Mr De Lacy said. “And the Global Sugar Alliance will be closely monitoring the reforms to make sure it happens.” In Hong Kong, WTO Members agreed to the elimination of export subsidies by the end of 2013. It is time for developed countries to inject some leadership into the Doha process if results are to be achieved. Mr De Lacy said, “Global Sugar Alliance members called on the world’s leaders to make their commitment to the elimination of export subsidies unequivocal, not dependent on the outcome of the Round.” Only gestures such as these will keep the Round alive. Mr De Lacy also stressed the need to have a successful outcome to the Doha Development Round. He called on all participating countries to enter into the spirit of reform and make the necessary concessions. “Improved trading conditions are in everyone’s interests and Doha must not be allowed to fail.” ENDS
