WTO Director General Pascal Lamy announced on 24 July 2006 a suspension of negotiations on the Doha Development Agenda as the main negotiating parties were unable to bridge the remaining gaps. The decision was taken after long and intense discussions and despite political support given by Heads of States at the G8 Summit in mid-July.

CIAA evaluates the suspension as a serious disappointment for the EU food and drink industry, one that continuously supported the Doha Development Agenda since the beginning of the round five years ago.  European food and drink businesses expected the multilateral process to deliver a level playing field through improved disciplines in agricultural policies and to offer enhanced trade opportunities.

The temporary suspension risks leading to a complete failure of these multilateral negotiations.  CIAA understands that it was inevitable to call off temporarily the current negotiation sessions, but has urged governments to engage in the effort to revive continued multilateral negotiations as soon as possible and match the EU`s flexibility in agricultural market access.

In a press release on 26 July 2007 CIAA voiced its concern and urged trade partners to regain momentum, and CIAA President Jean Martin repeated that "CIAA stands ready to provide continued support to the European Commission in its efforts to bring the multilateral negotiation to a successful conclusion."

For the full WTO press release click here