The WTO Doha Round: Where next for world trade?

Summary:

The World Trade Organisation launched a new round of trade talks at Doha, Qatar in November 2001. The new ‘Doha Round’ was billed as a development round which would focus on the needs of developing countries. Initially intended to be completed by the end of 2004, the talks have been progressed slowly, stricken by disagreements.

This paper summarises: the Round’s launch and progress in almost five years of negotiations; prospects for resumption; and possible consequences of long-term suspension – or collapse – of the Round. Appendices give an outline of key issues in main areas, and signposts to further useful resources.