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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
*In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
OECS -WTO  MEMBERS  
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 3 AND 5 MAY 2023  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later than  
2 June 2023. 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
ÉTATS  DE L'OECO  MEMBRES  DE L'OMC  
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 3 ET 5 MAI 2023  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 2 juin 2023 au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
MIEMBROS  DE LA OMC  INTEGRANTES  DE LA OECO  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 3 Y 5 DE MAYO DE 2023  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , 
o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 2 de junio de 2023  las correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir 
en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
 
 
  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
OECS -WTO  MEMBERS  
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel  (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia)  
CONTENTS  
 
1   INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ......................  3 
2   OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE OECS -WTO MEMBERS 
(HONOURABLE EVERLY PAUL CHET GREENE)  ................................ ................................ ... 4 
3   STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ...............  9 
4   STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  12 
5   REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE OECS -WTO MEMBERS  
AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ................................ ................................ ........................  36 
6   CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ ........................  50 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by the OECS -WTO Members are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/437/Add.1 and will be available 
online at http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The fourth  Trade Policy Review of the OECS -WTO Members  was held on 3 and 5  May 2023. The 
Chairperson, H.E. Mr Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel  (Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia) welcomed the delegation s 
of the OECS -WTO Members , headed by the Honourable Everly Paul Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign 
Affairs and Trade of Antigua and Barbuda, and Chair of the OE CS Council of Ministers of Trade ; and 
the discussant, H.E. Ms Nadia  Theodore  (Canada) . 
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The Report by the OECS -WTO Members  is contained in document WT/TPR/G/ 437, and that 
of the WTO Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/ 437. 
1.4.  Questio ns by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: Thailand, 
Canada, United  States, Singapore, China, Dominican  Republic, European  Union, and Colombia . The 
following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline: Brazil, United  Kingdom, 
Argentina, and Ecuador . 
1.5.  The Chairperson first recalled some elements of the OECS -WTO Members' previous Review 
in 2014. In the last Review, WTO Members had highlighted that they were cognizant of the fact that 
the OECS -WTO Members ar e particularly vulnerable to exogenous shocks, as they have a narrow 
economic base, are highly reliant on imports and are frequently affected by natural disasters, 
especially hurricanes. They had commended the OECS -WTO Members on their open economies, 
prudent macroeconomic policies, including their  fiscal consolidation and debt restructuring 
programmes, and the streamlining of their taxation systems.  
1.6.  Members had also praised the OECS -WTO Members' strong support for the multilateral trading 
system and their  participation in the Trade Facilitation Negotiations. While recognizing the 
OECS -WTO Members' open investment regime, certain Members stated that more was needed in 
terms of ease of doing business to attract foreign investment. Members had welcomed the 
establishment of the OECS Economic Union, which allows for the free movement of people, goods , 
and capital across the OECS region. Some concerns were expressed regarding the use of customs 
service charges and other taxes on imports, as well as import licence s. OECS -WTO Members were 
also encouraged to harmonize their tariff schedules.  
1.7.  Noting that the OEC -WTO Members had started dismantling their export subsidy schemes, 
Members expressed their hope that these would be abolished by end 2015, as required by WTO 
rules. Some of these issues have also emerged in the current Review and were discussed in the 
documents prepared for it.  
1.8.  The OECS -WTO Members received 169 advance written questions from 12  Members for this 
Review, 145 of which were sent within the deadline , on different issues covering patents, copyright, 
and other intellectual property rights protection; standards; WTO notifications; trade facilitation; 
customs procedures; rules of origin; tariffs and the Customs Service Charge; fiscal policy and 
taxation;  import prohibitions and licensing requirements; free zones; Citizen by Investment 
programmes; implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy;  the EPA with the EU; 
incentives;  and government procurement, among others. Prior to th e meeting, the 
OECS-WTO Members provided written replies to most of the  questions submitted within the deadline, 
and the Chairperson was looking forward to hearing the OECS -WTO Members' replies to other 
questions during the two -day meeting.  
1.9.  The meeting provide d a good opportunity for Members to discuss issues of interest to them 
and of importance to the multilateral trading system. The Chairperson looked forward to a fruitful 
exchange.  
1.10.   The Chairperson closed h is introductory remarks by wishing OECS -WTO Members  a very 
successful fourth  Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE OECS -WTO MEMBERS 
(HONOURABLE EVERLY PAUL CHET GREENE ) 
2.1.  H.E. Ambassador Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel, Chair of the Trade Policy Review Body (TPRB) ; 
H.E. Ms Nadia  Theodore,  Ambassador of Canada to the WTO and discussant ; Senator , the 
Honourable Keisal Peters, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines ; 
H.E. Ms Andrea  St. Bernard, Head of Grenada's delegation ; H.E. Mr Steven  Goldstein, Head of 
Saint Kitts and Nevis delegation ; Mr Ricky Jn  Baptiste, Head of Saint  Lucia's delegation ; 
Dr Didacus  Jules, Director -General of the OECS ; Ms Jacqueline Emmanuel, Director of Economic 
Affairs and Regional Integration  at the OECS Commission ; H.E.  Ambassador Colin  Murdoch, OECS ' 
Ambassador in Geneva ; other Representatives of OECS Member States and the OECS Commission ; 
distinguished Ambassadors and delegates.  
2.2.  It is an honour to address you on the occasion of the fourth Trade Policy Review (TPR) of th e 
WTO Members of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) – Antigua  and Barbuda ; 
Dominica ; Grenada ; Saint Kitts and Nevis ; Saint Lucia; and S aint Vincen t and the Grenadines. Allow 
me to extend apologies on behalf of my colleague Ministers who ar e absent due to pressing matters 
of State which they had to attend to at short notice. Nonetheless, as you can see, we have a fairly 
large delegation here this week.  
2.3.  Mr Chair, thank you for your remarks and your welcome. We are also particularly pleased t o 
have H.E.  Ms Nadia  Theodore, Ambassador of Canada to the WTO, as our discussant. We are even 
more pleased that Ambassador Theodore is also someone whom the OECS can lay claim to because 
of her familial ties to Saint  Lucia.  
2.4.  At the outset, also allow me t o recogni ze the staff of the Trade Polic ies Review  Division and our 
officials in capitals, including the OECS Commission, for the herculean efforts that went into 
producing our TPR Reports. Much of this work was conducted during a time of great difficulty not 
just for the OECS, but also for the entire global community owing to the COVID -19 pandemic.  
2.5.  Since the third OECS ' TPR, our Member States have been beset by several significant external 
shocks – some of them economic and others related to the environment and the climate crisis. 
In 2015 for example, Dominica lost nearly 90 % of its GDP due to the passage and impact of t ropical 
storm Ericka. In 2017, hurricanes Irma and Maria, two Category  5 hurricanes, caused significant 
damage in four OECS countries. Hurricane Maria was most destructive in Dominica, resulting in total 
damages assessed at 226 % of the country's GDP.  
2.6.  Mr Chair, of the Category  5 hurricanes to have affected the Caribbean since 1980, nearly 
three -quarters have occurred since the turn of the 21st century. Many scientists, including the 
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), link these more intense weather activities to a 
warming climate due to greenhouse gas emissions.  
2.7.  Climate change poses a severe and direct threat to many of the sectors on which the OECS 
relies on for its economic survival, namely agriculture, tourism , and fisheries. Much of the 
infrastructure which is vital to support trade, services, industrial development , and modernization 
are also at risk, such as telecommunications infrastructure, roads , and ports.  
2.8.  The OECS was also hit hard by the COVID -19 pandemic. Beyond the public health  burden, 
there was also a significant trade and economic burden. It adversely affected merchandise trade and 
disrupted travel and tourism -related services, which induced a deep recession in these economies. 
As a result, the GDP growth in all six countries drastically declined in 2020, ranging from 4 % to 
around 19 %.  
2.9.  The sharp decline in GDP translated to commensurate losses in goods and services trade and 
in 2020, the combined exports of these six countries fell by around 19 %, which is more than twice 
the drop in world trade during that period, at about 8 %.  
2.10.   In the midst of COVID -19, the region faced another natural hazard when the La  Soufrière 
Volcano in Saint  Vincent  and the Grenadines erupted in April  2021, also impacting neighbouring 
countries. Total dam ages were assessed at 18.1% of the country's 2020 GDP.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  2.11.   This is the backdrop against which we are conducting this TPR exercise and ours is a story of 
persistent vulnerability to various exogenous economic, environmental and climatic shocks. 
Nonetheless, ou rs is also a story of resilience and the OECS remains committed to deepening its 
integration into the global economy, and pursuing sound economic and developmental policies at 
home.  
2.12.   We are pleased to note that according to the Eastern Caribbean Central Ba nk (ECCB), our 
economic activity strengthened in the first  half of 2022 as the pandemic effects continued to 
dissipate. This strengthening was supported by continued recovery in travel services, particularly 
stayover and cruise categories, which boosted de mand for other services sectors such as 
transportation, wholesale , and retail trade.  
2.13.   Consistent with the rebound in economic activity, government revenue collection expanded 
strongly in the first half of last year, resulting in improvements in governments ' fiscal balances, 
although total outstanding public sector debt rose. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also 
noted that the region's financial system has remained broadly stable so far, with adequate capital 
and liquidity buffers, even though non -performing loans remain high.  
2.14.   Speaking of the financial system, we must place on record our deep concern about the loss 
of correspondent banking relationships in major global financial capitals, a process widely known as 
de-risking. This "de -risking" by c orrespondent banks poses a serious threat to the present and future 
stability of the financial sector and the proper functioning of our economy.  
2.15.   Overall, economic activity in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) is expected to 
further strengthen in  the short to medium -term, aided by pent -up demand for travel. Nonetheless, 
there are several downside risks, which could impede the continued recovery. These include the 
protraction of the military conflict in Ukraine and other geopolitical conflicts whic h could result in 
greater macroeconomic uncertainty and volatility in commodity prices.  
2.16.   While we remain optimistic, we are also mindful of the challenges which were identified by 
the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its Article  IV Consultation on the E CCU last July. These 
include sizable fiscal deficits, due to continued pandemic -and disaster -related spending and 
temporary support to address rising living costs. As a result, gross financing needs and public debt 
are expected to remain at elevated levels  in the near term.  
2.17.   Essentially, our vulnerabilities, the challenges associated with our small size, as well as those 
emanating from the uncertainty and turbulence that characterize the external environment, have 
framed our macroeconomic performance and ou tlook. It is out of these experiences spanning several 
decades, that we decided to pursue a deeper form of regional integration through the establishment 
of the ECCU in 2011. The ECCU continues to be our overarching development policy framework and 
the bas is for joint action in pursuing the collective social and economic future of OECS Member 
States.  
2.18.   Some of the main objectives of the Economic  Union are economic growth, development and 
international competitiveness by the convergence and coordination of th e economic policies of OECS 
Member States.  
2.19.   In 2018, the OECS adopted a new Development Strategy: Shaping our Shared Prosperity 
2019 to 2028. This new Development Strategy represents a new approach to holistically respond to 
the ongoing and emerging threat s and opportunities to the social and economic development of 
the OECS. It also reaffirms the commitment of the OECS Member States to achieving sustainable 
development.  
2.20.   The OECS is also pursuing a number of sectoral development policies and strategies. In the 
area of tourism, which remains our dominant economic sector, the specific objective is to contribute 
to an environment that maximally leverages in a sustainable manner, the tourism sector for 
generating output and creating jobs, thereby contributing to the attainment of GDP growth and 
reduced unemployment.  
2.21.   With respect to agriculture, gone are the heydays when this sector contributed double digits 
to OECS GDP on a consistent basis. Agriculture now accounts for less than 10 % of GDP for five of WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  the six OECS countries and for four of them, Government expenditure in agriculture is less than 
1.5% of GDP. Meanwhile, the six OECS -WTO Members all import greater than 50 % of the food th ey 
consume, with four countries importing greater than 80 %. This means that the region remains 
extremely vulnerable to disruptions in global agricultural markets, including conflicts and export 
restrictions.  
2.22.   However, the OECS Food and Agriculture Systems Transformation (FAST) Strategy, 
completed in May last year, is a response to the call for increased food security, food self -reliance 
and agricultural development across the OECS. We are also fully onboard with the rest of the 
Caribbean Community (CARICOM)  to reduce the Region's large food import bill by 25% by 2025.  
2.23.   With respect to manufacturing, like agriculture, it is no longer as big a sector for OECS 
countries. Since the last review, the contribution of the sector to regional GDP has declined, moving 
from 4.2 % to 3.7 % and averaging 3.8 % from 2015 to 2021. Growth in manufacturing output also 
declined by 0.2 % from 2015 to 2021.  
2.24.   In the coming years, our objectives are to:  
• Increase manufacturing production through general sectoral support as well as targ eted 
support for the regional processing and labour intensive tradeables subsectors;  
• move up the high -value chain; and  
• lay a platform for entry into Global Innovation for Local Market (GILM) Industries.  
2.25.   Broadly speaking, increasing trade and particularly exports, through enhanced 
competitiveness, micro , small , and medium e nterprise (MSME) development, entrepreneurship and 
trade promotion are priorities for the OECS Member States and key elements of OECS regional trade 
policy.  
2.26.   At the national level, OECS Me mber States have also been pursuing actions to stabilize and 
grow their economies. In Antigua  and Barbuda, the Government has elaborated a Medium -Term 
Fiscal Strategy (MTFS) for the period 2 021-2023. The overarching goal of Antigua  and Barbuda's 
MTFS is to  place the country on a path of fiscal and debt sustainability and broad -based economic 
growth, while ensuring that the country's debt to GDP ratio trends towards the prudential benchmark 
of 60% as established by the Monetary Council of the ECCU.  
2.27.   For Domi nica, through the National Resilience Development Strategy  2030, the country has 
set the goal of building the world's first climate resilient country. The climate resilience vision is a 
developmental paradigm which seeks to climate proof the key pillars of  national policy which are 
economic diversification, sustained sustainable and inclusive growth, employment creation and 
revenue generation, social development, social protection and poverty reduction, environmental 
management, and cultural preservation.  
2.28.   In Grenada, the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) is the anchor for Grenada's 
development agenda and priorities for the period 2020 -2035. The strategic focus of the NSDP rests 
on the three sustainable development pillars of first - the society, second - the economy, and 
third- the environment. Accordingly, Vision  2035 is translated into the following three National 
Goals: (i) high human development; (ii) vibrant, dynamic, competitive economy with supporting 
climate -and-disaster -resilient infrastructure; and (iii) environmental sustainability and security.  
2.29.   In the case of S aint Kitts and Nevis, the return to pre -pandemic levels of economic growth is 
expected by the end of 2024, and beyond that, growth is expected to converge towards its 
medium -term path. The budget is also expected to be broadly balanced through 2025. There are 
also growing prospects for an acceleration of the transition to renewable energy and increased 
investment in resilience by the broader public sector. The authorities are also committed to 
maintaining a prudent fiscal stance going forward, inclusive of small budget surpluses for the next 
three years, supported by the phasing -out of electricity price subsidies and streamlining of income 
support me asures.  
2.30.   Saint Lucia's 2020 -2023 Medium Term Development Strategy represents a clarion call for 
collective action to drive the country's development agenda. The Strategy seeks to accentuate the 
interconnected nature of development planning by ensuring econ omic, social , and environmental WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  considerations are incorporated and mainstreamed into Saint  Lucia's national planning framework. 
The Strategy has six key result areas: agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, citizen security, 
education , and healthcare.  
2.31.   With respect to S aint Vincent  and the Grenadines, it continues to recover from the twin 
disruptions of COVID -19 and volcanic eruptions. The authorities' decisive policy 
responses  - supported by two IMF Rapid Credit Facility (RCF) disbursements and financing fr om 
other International Financial Institutions  - helped protect lives and livelihoods and contain economic 
scars. The economy was projected to grow by 5 % in 2022, supported by large -scale investment 
projects and recoveries in tourism and agriculture. Growth  is projected to strengthen further in 2023 
as large -scale construction projects get into full swing.  
2.32.   Specific to trade policy, the primary objective for the formulation, development , and 
implementation of trade policies in the OECS continues to be the ne ed to expand and diversify OECS 
exports and the need to enhance OECS trade competitiveness.  
2.33.   It is instructive to note that OECS countries have massive deficits with respect to their 
merchandise trade. In 2021 for instance, OECS countries had a significant  negative balance of trade 
deficit valued at US D 3.0 billion or about 85 % of 2021's total trade. By comparison, OECS Member 
States typically enjoy a positive services trade balance. For example, in 2021, only one of the six 
OECS -WTO Members had a services trade deficit. Nonetheless, the positive balance of trade with 
respect to trade in services fails to compensate for the negative balance of trade in goods.  
2.34.   Going forward, the OECS intends to further strengthen its trade policy coordination. Already, 
Membe r States coordinate very closely on trade policy matters, including at the WTO where we 
speak with a singular voice. At the moment, we are actively working to enhance our human resources 
in the area of trade policy, further building out our regional integr ation regime, namely by pursuing 
a customs union, and seeking greater involvement of the private sector through the revitalization of 
the OECS Business Council to aid in our trade policy formulation and execution.  
2.35.   The OECS continues to place the greatest of priorities on its participation in the wider 
CARICOM grouping. Here, the OECS is committed to a high level of regional integration in areas 
such as trade and functional cooperation. CARICOM serves as a useful buffer for the OECS against 
external forces,  and helps to strengthen the ability of the OECS to engage on the international stage 
as well as with key bilateral partners.  
2.36.   Since the last Review, the OECS concluded one major bilateral trade agreement - the 
Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the  United  Kingdom (UK), which the OECS negotiated 
as part of the wider Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) bloc. The CARIFORUM - UK EPA began to be 
provisionally applied between CARIFORUM States, including the OECS, and the UK from 
January  2021.  
2.37.   We take note of the  need to address the issue of tariff cuts under the CARIFORUM -UK EPA as 
well as under the older CARIFORUM -European Union EPA. We remain committed to doing this as 
soon as possible. We also recogni ze that greater efforts need to be made to enhance trade 
performance under the two agreements through actions to address challenges faced in the export 
market, such as sanitary and phytosanitary issues, as well as supply -side constraints.  
2.38.   Through the wider CARICOM grouping, we are also parties to trade ag reements with 
Colombia, Costa  Rica, Cuba , and the Dominican  Republic. Under each of these agreements, there is 
a need to improve OECS export performance.  
2.39.   OECS Member States also continue to be eligible for the preferential market access granted 
under thre e non -reciprocal and unilateral trade arrangements in the Western Hemisphere – the 
Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI), the Commonwealth Caribbean -Canada Trade Agreement 
(CARIBCAN) and the CARICOM -Venezuela Trade Agreement. These arrangements play an importan t 
role in our export development, albeit with scope for improvement particularly with respect to our 
ability to further penetrate those markets.  
2.40.   The OECS remains committed to multilateralism, including trade multilateralism with the WTO 
at the core of our  efforts. Less than a year from now, we will have the 13th Ministerial Conference WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  (MC13) and the OECS will play an active and constructive role in the build -up to the conference and 
during the conference. We continue to prioritize meaningful outcomes on WT O Reform, including 
Dispute Settlement Reform; renewal of the E -Commerce Work Programme and Moratorium; 
Agriculture; Development, particularly the G -90 Agreement Specific Proposals and Fisheries 
Subsidies.  
2.41.   Particularly on Dispute Settlement Reform, we wan t to see the rules -based system fully 
restored, inclusive of adequate accommodation for the interests of developing countries with respect 
to accessibility and compliance, among others. We take note of the Multi -Party Interim Appeal 
Arbitration Arrangement  (MPIA) which some WTO Members concluded after the collapse of the 
Appellate Body (AB). We are not opposed to the MPIA in principle, however, our priority has been 
to find a multilateral solution to the current AB impasse.  
2.42.   We also want to acknowledge some  of the concerns raised by Members with respect to the 
notification challenges faced by the OECS. We assure Members that our failure to notify under 
several WTO Agreements is not a wilful act, but one that results from the immense capacity 
constraints face d by our small public administrations. Nonetheless, as our robust participation in this 
TPR exercise demonstrates, we see tremendous value in transparency and we intend to redouble 
our efforts toward our outstanding notifications, including by making use o f all available technical 
assistance.  
2.43.   We are also pleased to note that the majority of our Member States have submitted answers 
to the nearly 150  questions posed by the WTO Membership for this TPR exercise.  
2.44.   Finally, we renew to all WTO Members the commit ment and support of the OECS to a more 
durable multilateral trading system. As I have said before, the size of our delegation here today is 
a demonstration of our commitment to this cause. We therefore call on all WTO Members to stay 
the course and to furt her strengthen our collective efforts to shore up the system for the benefit of 
all, but especially the smallest and most vulnerable.  
2.45.   Mr Chair, many thanks to you, the discussant, the Secretariat team, the interpreters and all 
Members that have posed ques tions and the ones here today to participate in this very important 
exercise.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  First, I would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of the Organi sation of Eastern 
Caribbean States. The Honourable Everly Paul Chet Gree ne, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade for 
Antigua  and Barbuda and Chair of the OECS Council of Ministers of Trade. From Grenada, 
H.E. Andrea St . Bernard, Special Envoy. From Saint  Kitts and Nevis, H .E. Steven  Goldstein, 
Honorary Consul. From Saint  Vincent  and the Grenadines, the Honourable Keisal  Peers, Minister of 
Foreign Affairs and Trade. From Saint  Lucia, Mr  Ricky Jn  Baptiste, Director of External Trade. From 
the OECS Commission, Director -General Dr  Didacus  Jules; my good colleague, 
Ambassador  Murdoch ; and to all of your team members here with you today – welcome.  
3.2.  Trade Policy Reviews would not be possible without the detailed work of delegations and the 
Secretariat. This detailed work is even more appreciated when it comes from small delegation s with 
limited resources. In this regard, I would like to thank the OECS for its comprehensive Report and 
the Secretariat for providing substantial research and information that enables Members to perform 
this important Review function.  
3.3.  It is a great hono ur and a great pleasure for me to serve as discussant in this fourth  Trade 
Policy Review of the OECS. Part of who I am and what I am, is undeniably connected to the Caribbean 
region. I am the product of parents born at either ends of the island of Saint  Lucia - a mother from 
Castries and a father from Vieux  Fort - who immigrated to Canada in their early adult life but made 
it their responsibility for their first  generation Canadian kids to know, understand and be proud of 
their ancestral heritage. I often r efer to myself as being, "made in Canada, with Caribbean spices". 
So, thank you for allowing me this opportunity. And thank you or giving my father something new 
to brag about in Gros  Islet this Friday.  
3.4.  I would like to focus my comments today around three  broad themes:  
(i) Short but important context of the overall landscape of the OECS -WTO Members during 
the period of review;  
(ii) OECS -WTO Members engagement at the WTO and the role in relation to broader policy 
goals; and  
(iii) some common themes that I see coming out of Members advanced questions.  
3.5.  Let me begin with two pieces of OECS -specific facts . First, t he total population of the six 
OECS -WTO Members is about 630,000 ; and second, i ndividually, these small -island economies – 
Antigua  and Barbuda , Dominica, Grenada, Saint  Kitts and Nevis, Saint  Lucia, and Saint  Vincent  and 
the Grenadines - are some of the WTO's smallest Members by both population and area.  
3.6.  The eight years of the period of review covers a time  during which the region has endured 
several significant external economic and environmental shocks: to name a few - tropical storm 
Erika in 2015, in 2017 – two Category  5 hurricanes - Hurricane Irma and hurricane Maria and the 
eruption of the La Soufrière  volcano in 2021. And then of course the global health pandemic and the 
impacts from the Russia n Federation 's war on Ukraine.  
3.7.  This is important context, and as came through in the remarks by the Honourable 
Minister  Greene – persistent resilience is at the  heart of the region.  
3.8.  Tourism is the dominant economic sector for the OECS – the share of receipts as a percentage 
of exports among Member States is among the highest in the world, with the OECS average in 2019 
standing at 57 %. Much of the region's employ ment also relies on tourism, ranging from 35% in 
Dominica to almost 90% in Antigua  and Barbuda. This meant that the effects of the pandemic were 
particularly perilous. Data from the Commonwealth Secretariat reveals that the pandemic resulted 
in GDP loss of USD 1.2 billion and a loss of USD 800 million in global exports for OECS -WTO Members 
during the first year of the pandemic.  
3.9.  However, preliminary data for 2022 reveals that several of the OECS countries have reached 
75% of their pre -pandemic stayover arrival figures, with the caveat that intra -regional and the cruise 
sector have not achieve d that level of recovery.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  3.10.   As outlined in the Secretariat Report, all OECS -WTO Members undertook a mix of fiscal reform 
measures that included replacing some taxes, increasing the rates and coverage of others, trimming 
expenditure, in particular current ex penditure and rationalizing fuel prices and debt restructuring. 
Although progress was made until 2019, goals had to be revised due to the COVID -19 pandemic. As 
we move out of the pandemic, over the medium -term fiscal consolidation will no doubt resume and 
creating fiscal space for productive investment and resilience building will be critical to support a 
resilient and inclusive recovery.  
3.11.   Turning now to the participation of the OECS -WTO Members in the work of the WTO , for the 
small highly open, island deve loping states of the OECS, the primary preoccupation in the 
formulation, development and implementation of trade policies continues to be the need to expand 
and diversity of exports; the need to enhance their trade competitiveness in order to achieve this;  
and the need to more effectively participate in and leverage the opportunities of the trade 
agreements that they are parties to.  
3.12.   On the multilateral side, the Member States of the OECS place a high value on an equitable, 
open, transparent, inclusive and rules-based trading system. The fact that the OECS has had a 
Mission in Geneva since 2005 is but one example of the commitment to the system and the 
OECS --WTO Members' active engagement in it.  
3.13.   Recall that I noted the fact that these Members are among some  of the smallest at the WTO. 
Despite their small size, the OECS -WTO Members consistently show up and make strong efforts to 
participate actively and fully in the working committees and across the range of negotiating areas.  
3.14.   The OECS is an active participa nt in several different negotiating groups, including the 
ACP Group, the G -90, the Group of Small and Vulnerable Economies, and the G -33 forum for 
development countries, among others.  
3.15.   A few examples of the contributions that OECS -WTO Members have made to the work of the 
WTO:  
3.16.   All OECS -WTO Members have ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
3.17.   The degree of implementation of commitments does vary, with three Members -Dominica, 
Saint Kitts and Nevis , and Grenada  - being very advanced in  the implementation of their 
commitments – having implemented 97.1%, 83.2% and 80.3% of the total, respectively as of 
November  2022. At the same time, Saint  Vincent  and the Grenadines had implemented 63% of its 
commitments under the TFA, Saint  Lucia, 49.2%  and Antigua  and Barbuda, 38.7%. Members would 
benefit from knowing more about the specific plans OECS -WTO Members have to get to full 
implementation, as soon as possible and if possible, earlier than the post 2028 dates that have been 
indicated for certai n provisions. I do note that the OECS Member States classified as high income 
continue to face challenges in accessing funding to assist with their TFA implementation as well as 
in benefiting from certain technical assistance activities.  
3.18.   The OECS also pla yed an active role in the outcome on fisheries subsidies achieved at MC12, 
including through the CARICOM and ACP Groups and have already demonstrated a commitment to 
the same level of active engagement as we move to the completion of the outstanding work o n 
fisheries subsidies.  
3.19.   OECS -WTO Members have punched above their weight in terms of engagement in the WTO 
Work Programme on E -Commerce. As highlighted in the Government Report and as we have learned 
through their engagement here in Geneva, OECS -WTO Member s see e -commerce as a means to 
promote inclusive growth, innovation, diversification, job creation, and sustainable development, 
particularly in a post -pandemic context.  
3.20.   At the same time, while the expansion of e -commerce and digital trade provides such 
opportunities, including for MSMEs, it also creates a number of specific challenges, including in terms 
of digital divide, that prevent OECS -WTO Members from fully seizing this innovation and growth 
potential. These Members see a role in the WTO, including through their support of the Work 
Programme and moratorium on e -commerce, to help mitigate these challenges.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  3.21.   Three OECS -WTO Members – Antigua  and Barbuda, Dominica , and Grenada – are active 
participants in the JSI on Investment Facilitation for Development and have made concrete proposals 
at the table. The core objective of the future Agreement, which is to facilitate greater participation 
of developing and least -developed Members in global investment flows, is an area highlighted in 
many of the individual OECS -WTO Member reports.  
3.22.   Members are also participants in the Informal Working Group on MSMEs and provide valuable 
perspectives on ways in which WTO Members can be tter support MSME's participation in global trade. 
Gaining the perspectives of small island economies in these discussions is crucial and will only help 
to ensure that what we do here in Geneva, remains relevant to the people and businesses who we 
are doin g it all for.  
3.23.   Similarly, the OECS -WTO Members participation in the work on women and trade, including 
endorsing the declaration on trade and women's economic empowerment demonstrates the 
commitment to intensify efforts to increase women's participation in  global trade.  
3.24.   While understanding the particular challenges of small delegations, OECS -WTO Members may 
wish to consider how participating in the JSI on e -commerce might help support its goals on 
digitalization.  
3.25.   The OECS Members have underscored disappoin tment at the inability to reach an outcome on 
agriculture at MC12. Given the importance of this sector for OECS -WTO Members, and the 
demonstrated and constructive engagement of OECS Members at the WTO, I believe that they are 
in a strong position to suppor t forward looking solutions to this critically important issue area.  
3.26.   Finally, the OECS -WTO Members have placed a high level of priority on WTO Reform, noting 
that while in terms of the regular work of the WTO across its various functions reform is likely to be 
incremental, it must also be Member -driven, open, transparent , and inclusive. They have also 
expressed concern on the ongoing impasse in the Dispute Settlement System as it relates to the 
Appellate Body, noting its commitment to a two -tiered Dispute Settlement System and underscoring 
the need for the system to ensure that it is equitable, accessible , and cost effective for small 
developing countries and LDCs.  
3.27.   It is clear that the OECS -WTO Members remain committed to continued integration into the 
global trading system, with the WTO playing a key role in that regard. It did not go unnoticed to me 
that the three pillars around which the OECS Development Strategy has been developed are very 
much aligned with what the global trading system is supposed to deliver for all:  
(i) Generating Economic Growth.  
(ii) Promoting Human and Social Wellbeing.  
(iii) Sustainable Use of Natural Endowments.  
 
3.28.   Before I close, let me highlight some of the themes that jumped out at me in reviewing the 
questions raised by Members in their advanced written questions.  
3.29.   I would first note that the questions this year, compared to the last Review in 2014, are 
slightly more qualitative. To me this speaks to a maturing of the OECS' trade  policy framework.  
3.30.   Members continue to have a number of concerns mostly around measures affecting imports, 
including import restrictions and tariffs, and are increasingly seeking assuranc es on regional 
harmonization of these measures. Members also continue to raise questions regarding investment 
regimes, and to point to concerns around notifications. So, again, as the OECS's trade  policy profile 
increases, so too do Members' expectations r egarding predictability and transparency. Despite the 
associated challenges, this also shows increasing interest in the OECS -WTO Members as a market, 
as an investment destination, as a trading partner – and I'd like to think that having alert eyes on 
you is thus a good problem to have.  
3.31.   To conclude, I congratulate the OECS -WTO Members on the contributions they have made to 
the WTO and the multilateral trading system. I look forward to the Review and to the discussion.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
THAILAND  
4.1.  Thailan d is delighted to participate in the fourth  Trade Policy Review of the OECS -WTO Members 
and would like to extend our warmest welcome to the delegation from the OECS -WTO Members, 
namely Antigua  and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint  Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and 
Saint Vincent  and the Grenadines.  
4.2.  Thailand thanks Ambassador Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel from Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia for the 
leadership and the introductory remarks. We also thank the discussant, Ambassador Nadia Theodore  
from Canada, for in sightful analysis of the OECS -WTO Members ' economic development and trade 
policies. We also appreciate the comprehensive reports prepared by the WTO Secretariat and the 
OECS -WTO Members.  
4.3.  Thailand notes and commends the OECS -WTO Members for the perseverance  they have 
demonstrated, as  small and vulnerable economies, in response to various external shocks that tend 
to impact them more severely than other countries. During the review period, they had to deal with 
a series of natural disasters that resulted in s ignificant infrastructural damages and loss as well as 
disruptions in the production of goods and services. Furthermore, having a narrow economic base 
with tourism at its core, the OECS -WTO Members  witnessed that their GDP significantly contracted due 
to a serious decline in tourist arrivals during the outbreak of the COVID -19 pandemic. As a country 
significantly rel ying on income from tourism, Thailand could fully empathize with the OECS -WTO 
Members on the decrease of tourists and income generated thereof.  
4.4.  Having said that, Thailand is pleased to learn that the OECS -WTO economies are currently in 
the process of recovery which naturally takes much longer compared to other more advanced 
economies. We would like to convey our best wishes for the OECS -WTO Membe rs to overcome these 
difficult times, and truly believe that the path to efficient and sustainable recovery lie upon the trade 
liberalization and facilitation. In this vein, Thailand commends the OECS -WTO Members ' continued 
efforts in repealing incentives contingent upon export performance and in implementing trade 
facilitative measures in accordance with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.5.  In addition, Thailand takes note the challenges that the OECS -WTO Members, as net food 
importing countries, have to encounter in terms of the food insecurity, especially during the review 
period where the supply chains were interrupted, and the global food prices were on the rise. 
Thailand recognizes an urgent need to address this issue in order to improve access and ma ke food 
more affordable, particularly for the least -developed and net food -importing developing countries. 
We are committed to participating in discussions to identify feasible solutions for helping build 
resilience against current and future acute food in stability  crises, as set forth in paragraph  8 of the 
Ministerial Declaration on the emergency response to food insecurity.  
4.6.  Thailand applauds the OECS -WTO Members for their active engagement, albeit their constraint 
in human resources, in many areas of the WTO work, with a view to ensuring a fair, equitable, open, 
transparent, inclusive , and rules -based multilateral trading system. Notably, Thailand shares the 
same commitment with the OECS -WTO Members in having a binding two -tiered system and calling 
for the restoration of the fully and well -functioning dispute settlement system by 2024 as mandated 
by Ministers at  the MC12. Thailand looks forward to working closely with the OECS -WTO Members 
to achieve meaningful and balanced outcomes for the upcoming MC13 . 
4.7.  Last but not least, Thailand notes that the trade and economic ties between Thailand and the 
OECS -WTO Members have been relatively modest, with the average total trade value of USD 25.1 
million between 2018 and 2022. However, we firmly believe that there  remains a number of potential 
areas that both sides could explore and work together to promote mutual interest and further 
strengthen our  trade and economic relations.  
4.8.  Thailand submitted, for this review, a list of  questions and would like to thank the OE CS-WTO 
Members for their responses, which Thailand will study with interest.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.9.  To conclude, Thailand is pleased to participate in the fourth  Trade policy review of the 
OECS -WTO Members and we  wish the OECS -WTO Members every success in the fourth  Trade Policy  
Review.  
CANADA  
4.10.   Canada is pleased to participate in this review of OECS -WTO Members. We thank the OECS 
Member States and the Secretariat for their reports covering developments since the last Review. 
Both reports identified a number of challenges faced by the OECS Members.  
4.11.   For small, highly trade -dependent island states, the pandemic had a devastating impact on 
economic production and trade. This was particularly so in the tourism sector that many of these 
economies heavily rely on. In addition, the region experienced an increasing number of 
environmental challenges, the eruption of La  Soufrière volcano in Saint  Vincent  and the Grenadines, 
and the rising costs for food, energy and other imported commodities. These rising costs have been 
attributed, among other things, to supply -chain disruptions caused by Russia n Federation' s illegal, 
unprovoked and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine. There have truly been an unprecedented series of 
challenges over the past few years. We would like to ackn owledge the resilience of the Governments 
and peoples of the OECS Member States during this difficult period.  
4.12.   As was the case in 2014 when the last Review was carried out, most OECS –WTO Members 
have generally open trade and investment regimes. Canada ackno wledges advances made in 
facilitating trade, particularly through the ongoing implementation of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement. However, Canadian companies still find it challenging to do business in the region. 
The OECS -WTO Members should continue to wo rk toward the improvement of the investment 
climate in order to attract and retain more foreign direct investment.  
4.13.   Canada commends the OECS -WTO Members on their efforts to achieve the objectives of the 
OECS Economic Union – deepening regional integration,  and promoting the free movement of goods 
and services among members. Canada encourages the OECS to continue the challenging work ahead 
to harmonize policies under this treaty, including tariff schedules, and to make progress with the 
reform program mes that are underway.  
4.14.   In the spirit of its longstanding friendship with the OECS and its Members both collectively 
and individually, Canada will continue to lend its support and advice. The OECS -WTO Members have 
prioritized climate resilience and alternative en ergies in their economic development strategies. 
Canada welcomes this and looks to support cooperation in this area.  
4.15.   Canada is pleased to see the constructive participation of the OECS -WTO Members in the 
informal discussions on dispute settlement. Until we  find a multilateral solution that preserves the 
essential features of the dispute settlement system, our best means to safeguard our rights is the 
Multi-Party Interim Appeal  Arbitration Arrangement. The MPIA is a temporary measure that provides 
for bindin g dispute settlement and access to appellate review in disputes between its 53  participants. 
Canada invites the Members of the OECS to consider participating in the MPIA.  
4.16.   As another example of how OECS -WTO Members play a constructive role in advancing the 
work of the WTO, Canada would like to highlight their contribution to the reinvigoration of the work 
programme on e -commerce and to the extension of the moratorium.  
4.17.   Canada welcomes the participation by all six OECS -WTO Members in the Informal Working 
Group on MSMEs and by a number of them in the negotiations on investment facilitation for 
development. Canada encourages OECS -WTO Members to join the other joint initiatives. Canada 
also encourages OECS -WTO Members that have not done so to join the Buenos  Aires Declaration on 
Trade and Women 's Economic Empowerment.  
4.18.   Canada calls upon the OECS -WTO Members to address their outstanding notifications. As was 
discussed last week in a Market Access Committee workshop, the TPR r eports are a rich source of 
information that can be repurposed to support fulfilment of notification obligations. Canada 
encourages OECS -WTO Members to work with the Secretariat in this regard.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.19.   In conclusion, we have submitted a number of questions on the reports submitted. We are 
reviewing the responses received.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.20.   The United  States welcomes the Honourable Everly Paul Chet Greene and the distinguished 
delegation from the Organi sation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). We appreciate this 
opport unity to participate in the fourth Trade Policy Review of OECS -WTO Members.  
4.21.   The United  States values its economic relationship with Eastern Caribbean States, and will 
continue our work to strengthen our commercial relationship, including under the Trade an d 
Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) between the United  States and the Caribbean Community.  
The TIFA is an important platform for discussions on expanding two -way trade and investment and 
we look forward to continued engagement under the Agreement.  
4.22.   U.S. trade preference programs, known collectively as the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI), 
illustrate another hallmark of U.S. -Caribbean economic partnership. Through the CBI, OECS 
Members States benefit from duty -free access to the U.S. market for most g oods.   
4.23.   The United  States commends the progress that the OECS -WTO Members have made since 
the last Trade Policy Review in 2014.  For example, as noted in the Secretariat Report, all OECS -WTO 
Members made reforms during the review period to consolidate publ ic finances and strengthen fiscal 
sustainability. We do recognize, however, the impact of significant exogenous shocks that affected 
fiscal performance in the region, including the COVID -19 pandemic and multiple devastating natural 
disasters.  
4.24.   The OECS -WTO Members also took important steps during the review period to deepen 
regional economic integration. Members advanced a number of initiatives, such as the completion 
of the 2015 OECS Policy on Rights Contingent on the Right to Freedom of Movement Within the  
Economic Union. They also advanced efforts to establish the OECS Customs  Union, as provided for 
in the Revised Treaty of Basseterre. Moreover, the OECS has grown, with the addition of Martinique 
and Guadeloupe as associate members in 2015 and 2019, respec tively.  
4.25.   We applaud continued efforts during the review period to fully implement the WTO 
Agreements. For example, every OECS -WTO Member ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) 
and took steps to implement the Agreement. As noted in the Secretariat a nd OECS -WTO Members ' 
reports, the degree of implementation of TFA implementation varies across countries. We strongly 
encourage OECS Members to fully implement their TFA commitments. Likewise, we encourage OECS 
Members to continue with efforts to make all the legal and regulatory amendments needed to comply 
with WTO Agreement provisions. Additionally, we strongly encourage OECS Members to accept the 
WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsides which benefits our oceans, our fishers, and our communities. 
We would als o like to work with OECS Members in the further negotiations to pursue additional, 
ambitious disciplines on harmful fisheries subsidies.  
4.26.   The Secretariat in its Report notes there were no changes to import prohibitions or the import 
licensing regimes in OEC S countries. As we noted in 2014, the administration of import licensing 
regimes can be trade restrictive, and we encourage OECS -WTO Members to review their regimes to 
ensure that trade flows smoothly and unobstructed.  
4.27.   The Secretariat has reported on an i nconsistency in OECS compliance with WTO notification 
obligations, including regarding agriculture and SPS measures. Moreover, OECS -WTO Members lack 
an inventory of SPS measures. We encourage the prompt submission of the outstanding 
notifications.  
4.28.   We note that the reason given for inconsistent notifications is a lack of technical and human 
resource capacity. The WTO Friends of Transparency Group encourages practical and technical 
improvements, such as simplified notification templates and greater automation  of notifications, 
while also encouraging greater technical assistance that can improve Members ' ability to meet their 
notification obligations. We urge OECS countries to become active in the Friends of Transparency 
group and to share your experiences with  notification challenges at the committee level. Timely and WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  complete notifications enable the WTO to function effectively and provide information that 
businesses use in their decision -making.  
4.29.   Furthermore, we would like to continue to work with the OECS as we seek fundamental reform 
of the Dispute Settlement System. Although we may not agree on every issue, we appreciate the 
thoughtful and creative spirit in which the OECS has engaged on these difficult issues. We encourage 
the OECS to continue its positive engagement with the United  States and all Members as we seek a 
reformed Dispute Settlement System that delivers on the interests of all Members. This is the type 
of engagement that we need from Members in order to achieve the reform that we are all committ ed 
to.  
4.30.   We commend the WTO Members of the Organi sation of Caribbean States for their commitment 
to the trade policy review process. We look forward to continued engagement, both bilaterally and 
within the WTO, to strengthen our commercial relationship.  
SINGAPORE  
4.31.   Let me begin by extending a very warm welcome to the delegation from the Organisation of 
the Eastern Caribbean States OECS -WTO Members, led by the Antigua  and Barbuda Minister of 
Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Chair of the OECS Council of Ministers of Trade, Everly Paul Chet 
Greene. We would also like to express our appreciation to the Chair Ambassador Saqer Abdullah 
Almoqbel ( Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia), the discussant Ambassador Nadia  Theodore (Canada), as well 
as the Secretariat for their insightful reports and statements. Allow me to make three points.  
4.32.   First, despite the vast geographical distance (close to 18 ,000 km) separating Singapore and 
the OECS region,  we share many similarities. Singapore, together with Antigua  and Barbuda, 
Dominica, Grenada, S aint Kitts and Nevis, S aint Lucia, and S aint Vincent  and the Grenadines, are 
small island states, with small populations and possess little natural resources. Hence, we have to 
work doubly hard to achieve economic development, inter alia, by supp orting free and open trade, 
maintaining an investment friendly environment and embracing innovative approaches to respond 
to new challenges. We have also enjoyed healthy bilateral trade. In 2022, bilateral trade in goods 
grew year on year by 36.1% to US D 124 million while Singapore 's total service exports to five OECS 
Members amounted to US D 26 million in 2021. With the pandemic stabilising and more positive 
business sentiments, our bilateral trade relationship has the potential to grow further.  
4.33.   Second, Si ngapore commends the OECS -WTO Members for their resilience in responding to 
the COVID -19 pandemic as well as the challenges of natural disasters. Concerted vaccination efforts, 
coupled with fiscal stimulus packages have enabled tourism and tourism related activities to 
rebound. The OECS has also introduced innovative financing mechanisms for climate -resilient 
transport and housing infrastructure. Most importantly, the OECS Members have continued to pursue 
trade liberali zation and pursued closer regional int egration through the OECS Economic Union and 
CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). Singapore also commends the OECS -WTO Members ' 
efforts, at both the national and regional levels, to ride the wave of digital transformation by creating 
an enabling digital environment. Examples include investing in developing e -government and 
e-commerce infrastructure, improving wireless internet acc ess, and building capacity in digital skills 
and technology adoption. These are all noteworthy endeavours that will facilitate cross -border trade 
by linking the OECS up with the interconnected digital global economy. We look forward to exchange 
experiences  and collaborate more closely with OECS -WTO Members to leverage the digital 
transformation and deliver concrete benefits to our peoples.  
4.34.   Third, Singapore and the OECS Members are committed to strengthen the rules -based 
multilateral trading system.  We welc ome the OECS -WTO Members ' ratification of the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement and look forward to steady progress in its implementation. In particular, the 
OECS has not allowed capacity constraints to prevent it from playing an active and constructive role 
in the WTO. In this connection, the OECS has contributed significantly to the on -going work on WTO 
reform including Dispute Settlement Reform and trade and environmental sustainability.  Singapore 
would like to  encourage OECS -WTO Members to join the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration 
Arrangement (MPIA), which will be an important signal of its commitment to maintain a two -tier and 
functioning Dispute Settlement System. Additionally, as one of the three co -convenors of the Joint 
Statement Initiative (JSI) o n E-Commerce, we urge WTO -OECS Members to consider joining this 
initiative.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.35.   In closing, my delegation looks forward to continue working closely with the OECS delegation 
in Geneva, led by Ambassador Colin  Murdoch and wish them  every success for its fourth  TPR. 
CHINA  
4.36.   First of all, I would like to extend my warm welcome to the delegation of the OECS -WTO 
Members  led by Honourable Everly Paul Chet Greene, and my appreciat ion to  the Governments of 
the OECS -WTO Members for the preparation for this review. Our gratitude also goes to the 
discussant, H .E. Ambassador Nadia  Theodore for your in sightful analysis and  the Secretariat for their 
hard work . Chair, I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate on  your election as 
Chairperson . China looks forward to fruitful work of the TPRB under your leadership ,  
4.37.   China commends the OECS -WTO Member ' remarkable efforts in implementing their social 
economic strategy  since the last review  in 2014. These efforts inclu de implementing the Revised 
Treaty of Basseterre (RTB) establishing the OECS Economic Union, launching new OECS 
Development Strategy (ODS): Shaping our Shared Prosperity 2019 to 2028, supporting the 
multilateral trading system, as well as enhancing regiona l integration.  
4.38.   As stressed in Secretariat Report, during t his period of review , the OECS -WTO Members  have 
been significantly affected by  natural disasters  and exogenous shocks , especially the COVID -19 
pandemic , hurricanes , and volcanic eruption in the reg ion. We are impressed by most of the 
OECS -WTO Members ' achievement in having a steadily economic growth between 2014 to 2019 
despite the devastating impacts of the disasters. And i t is encouraging to note that the OECS -WTO 
Members are currently in the process of recovery  from the effects of the COVID -19 pande mic. China 
sincerely hopes that the OECS -WTO Members will achieve a strong economic rebound.  
4.39.   As stressed in their Report, the Members of the OECS continue to place a high level of priority 
on a fair, equitable, open, transparent, inclusive , and rules -based multilateral trading system. We 
appreciate the OECS -WTO Members ' constructive participation in the WTO, especially their active 
engagement in the negotiations to achieve an outcome on fisheries subsidies at MC12, and their 
commitment to engaging meaningf ully in discussions to resolve challenges in the Dispute Settlement 
System.  
4.40.   Moreover, China welcomes the OECS -WTO Members ' acceptance of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement (TFA) and encourages their broader implementation of this important agreement. In 
particular, China is pleased to note that three OECS -WTO Members – Antigua  and Barbuda, 
Dominica , and Grenada are active participants in the JSI on Investment Facilitation and have made 
concrete proposals. Meanwhile, we note that environment protection is a ve ry important issue for 
the OECS -WTO Members. We look forward to your participation in the informal dialogue on Plastic 
Pollution and Environmentally Sustainable Plastics Trade.  We would also encourage the OECS -WTO 
Members to continuously play its active ro le in WTO, further enhance transparency and jointly 
strengthen the multilateral trading system and multilateralism.  
4.41.   During this period of review , the bilateral economic and trade relations between China and 
most of the OECS -WTO Members have continued to deepen and grow smoothly . This year marks 
the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and 
Antigua  and Barbuda. D uring these years, we have developed a sound bilateral relation and 
economic cooperation. Antigua  and Barbuda is an important destination for China 's outbound 
tourism, and we have developed sound economic and technological cooperation. Dominica is another 
good friend and partner of China in the Caribbean. New progress has been made in our cooperation 
in agriculture, education, medical care and climate change. In March of this year Dominican Foreign 
Minister Vince Henderson participated in the Boao Forum for Asia （BFA）, and we both pledged to 
boost bilateral ties. China and Grenada have also made impressive p rogress on the bilateral 
economic and trade cooperation. In 2022, the bilateral trade volume increased by 12.6% 
year-on-year.  
4.42.   Furthermore, the economic and trade cooperation between China and the OECS -WTO 
Members enjoys a broad prospect.  We are looking forward to deepening economic and trade 
cooperation with the OECS -WTO members. Tourism remains the dominant economic sector for t he 
OECS. As the pandemic control measures are lifted, the OECS -WTO Members will see more China 's 
tourists there. In this year, China will continue to host international exhibitions and conferences such WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  as China International Import Expo, China Import and E xport Fair, etc. We welcome your 
participation in all these events, and look forward to working together with the OECS -WTO Members 
to further increase imports from OECS.  
4.43.   For this review, we have submitted written questions. We appreciate reply from the 
OECS-WTO members. we will study them carefully.  To conclude, I wish this review a complete  
success.  
REPÚBLICA  DOMINICANA  
4.44.   La delegación de la República  Dominicana desea agradecer la presentación del informe de 
parte del  Honorable Everly Paul Chet Greene, Minis tro de Relaciones Exteriores y Comercio de 
Antigua  y Barbuda, y Presidente del Consejo de Ministros y Comercio de la Organización de Estados 
del Caribe  Oriental. A la vez desea darle una cordial bienvenida a la delegación le acompaña. 
Agradecemos  también la valiosa ponencia de la Embajadora Nadia  Theodore, Representante 
Permanente de  Canadá. Asimismo, queremos destacar el trabajo del Embajador Colin Murdoch, y 
todo su equipo  en Ginebra.  
4.45.   Los informes presentados destacan cómo la Organiza ción de Estados del Caribe Oriental 
(OECO),  fundada hace más de medio siglo, es una agrupación de once pequeños Estados insulares 
en desarrollo del Caribe Oriental, que incluye a seis miembros independientes, a saber: 
Antigua  y Barbuda, Dominica, Granada, Saint Kitts y Nevis , Santa  Lucía, y 
San Vicente  y las Granadinas; así  como los Estados no independientes de Montserrat, Anguila, las 
Islas Vírgenes Británicas, Guadalupe  y Martinica.  
4.46.   Los Estados del Caribe Oriental, al igual que la República  Dominicana, co mparten la condición  
geográfica de ser islas, y los desafíos que esto conlleva.  
4.47.   Asimismo, nuestros Estados forman parte y comparten principios y objetivos, en el marco de 
la Organización de las Naciones Unidas (ONU), la Organización de los Estados American os (OEA), la  
Organización de Estados de África, Caribe y Pacífico (Grupo ACP), y el CARIFORO, sólo por citar  
algunos.  
4.48.   Los informes señalan cómo, al igual que la gran mayoría de países, los Estados Miembros de 
la OMC  integrantes de la Organización de Estado s del Caribe Oriental, fueron afectados por la 
pandemia del  COVID -19, pero además de fenómenos naturales como la erupción volcánica en 
San Vicente  y las Granadinas, y una serie de desastres naturales en la región, incluidos los inducidos 
por el cambio  climático. Observamos también con interés que los seis Miembros de la Organización 
de Estados del  Caribe Oriental (OECO) y de la OMC son economías pequeñas y vulnerables con una 
base económica  estrecha, y con un PIB per  cápita que va desde alrededor de USD 8.000 hasta unos 
USD 20.000, dependiendo del Estado.  
4.49.   Valoramos de manera positiva que el CARICOM, del cual forman parte seis de los Estados 
miembros  de la Organización de Estados del Caribe Oriental, ha concluido cinco acuerdos comerciales 
bilaterales  de diversa amplitud y profundidad con socios regionales a lo largo de los años, incluyendo 
el tratado  de libre comercio con la República  Dominicana, que entró en vigor en 1999.  
4.50.   Otros acuerdos muy importantes que se resaltan son el Acuerdo de As ociación Económica 
CARIFOROUE  (EPA), entre la Unión  Europea y 15 Estados del Caribe del grupo CARIFORO, y el 
Acuerdo entre los  Estados del CARIFORO y el Reino  Unido.  
4.51.   En sus relaciones con los Estados del Caribe, la República  Dominicana busca fortalecer la 
cooperación  en áreas como el intercambio de experiencias en materia de turismo, servicios de salud, 
cultura,  deportes, conectividad aérea, y comercio e inversión, entre otros. En este sentido, 
importantes  reuniones y trabajos se han llevado a cabo en la re gión últimamente.  
4.52.   Nuestra delegación agradece de antemano las respuestas a las preguntas formuladas por 
escrito  sobre diferentes temas, tales como las áreas en las que se podría mejorar el Acuerdo de 
Asociación  Económica CARIFORO -UE, y el fortalecimiento d e las relaciones económicas con la 
República  Dominicana, en el marco del Acuerdo (EPA), así como sobre las notificaciones a la OMC y 
los mecanismos para salvaguardar la agricultura, la sanidad y la fitosanidad que se encuentran WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  vigentes.  Las respuestas a l as preguntas presentadas serán analizadas con la debida atención en 
nuestra  capital.  
4.53.   Al concluir, queremos aprovechar la ocasión para agradecer nuevamente a la Organización 
de Estados  del Caribe Oriental, y desearle un exitoso examen de su política comerci al. 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.54.   I would first like to welcome all the delegations of the OECS countries, led by Honourable 
Everly Paul Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Antigua  and Barbuda and the Chair 
of the OECS Council of Ministers of Trade (Hea d of Delegation), the OECS Commission as well as the 
Ambassadors here in Geneva. Let me extend my appreciation to the discussant, 
H.E. Nadia  Theodore, Ambassador of Canada for introducing us to the six Eastern Caribbean 
countries ' trade policies and practices today.  
4.55.   Since the last TPR in 2014, OECS countries have been exposed to considerable external 
shocks. As small island states that are reliant on tourism for their economic sustainability, they were 
hit particularly hard by the COVID -19 pandemic, on top of the well -known threats related to climate 
change, severe weather conditions and natural disasters. Economic instability related to the 
Russia n Federation' s war in Ukraine have now added to the list of challenges for the OECS gr oup. 
4.56.   In view of these challenging conditions, the EU must commend the block for its significant 
achievements in economic integration and the continued commitment to achieving ever -closer ties 
in other areas. The EU is also particularly impressed with the s ignificant progress accomplished under 
the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.57.   The EU knows very well that the force lies in unity. As a major supporter and donor of the 
Caribbean integration process, the EU continues to see the OECS as a forerunner of regional 
integration and will back that process by all available means.  
4.58.   The EU is also an important trade partner for OECS countries and has become a first export 
destination for OECS countries. The OECS countries are also part of the EU 's Economic Partnership 
Agreement (EPA) with the CARIFORUM group.  
4.59.   Signed in 2008, the EPA not only provides duty free and quota free access to the EU market, 
but it also contains commitments on trade in services, investment, trade -related issues such as 
competition policy, governme nt procurement, intellectual property rights, as well as sustainable 
development aspects. It also allows for the necessary flexibilities to account for the special needs of 
less developed Members and we are currently reviewing the functioning of the Agreem ent focusing 
more on the effective implementation of those provisions that are instrumental for improving the 
bilateral and investment climate.  
4.60.   The EU supported OECS Member States with the implementation of the EPA in key areas such 
as innovation and intel lectual property rights, technical barriers to trade, sanitary and phytosanitary 
measures, and capacity building, notably in the customs and trade facilitation areas, with significant 
effects in terms of improving conditions for trade.  
4.61.   The EU will continue  to provide trade related cooperation assistance to OECS countries in the 
future. For instance, through the ongoing "Strengthening Regional Integration Programme ", the EU 
is seeking to consolidate the OECS Economic  Union and promote a more inclusive and 
climate -resilient economy. In addition, as part of the Global Gateway strategy, we are currently 
compiling a 360 º package of financial de -risking and operational tools that aim to create better 
conditions for quality investments, in particular in the areas o f a green and digital transition.  
4.62.   In this context, the OECS States will however need to step -up efforts to moderni ze their 
investment frameworks and improve conditions of doing business. In this regard, the EU welcomes 
the active participation of some OEC S Members in the ongoing negotiations towards an agreement 
on Investment Facilitation for Development and encourages all OECS -WTO Members to join this 
initiative.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.63.   In times of global uncertainty and the constant emergence of new challenges, it is more 
impor tant than ever to maintain and strengthen the rules -based economic cooperation. The WTO - 
and its reform – will continue to be an important element for this. In this regard, we commend OECS 
countries ' support on solutions to overcome the impasse of the Dis pute Settlement System. In the 
meantime, we would invite them to consider joining the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration 
Arrangement (so called MPIA), which is a temporary but active mechanism for solving trade disputes.  
4.64.   However, we would also welcome  further progress by OECS countries in implementing WTO 
rules and existing Agreements, notably in terms of notifications ' compliance. We also encourage 
OECS countries to consider accession to the Government Procurement Agreement and, on the 
environmental f ront, we hope that OECS countries will take part in plurilateral environmental 
initiatives, such as the Informal Dialogue on Plastics Pollution and Sustainable Plastics Trade. Finally, 
we also encourage the OECS countries to consider joining the Joint Stat ement Initiative on Services 
Domestic Regulation.  
4.65.   Only by continuously progressing towards a rules -based trading system through such 
initiatives, will we be able to fully leverage the opportunities offered by trade agreements and 
partnerships and attract n ew investments and capital inflows.  
4.66.   The EU appreciates the OECS WTO -Members ' replies to our advance questions, which we will 
review carefully. On behalf of the EU, I wish all OECS -WTO Members a successful fourth  Trade Policy 
Review.  
COLOMBIA  
4.67.   Saludamos atentamente a los Ministros de Relaciones Exteriores y Comercio, así como al 
Presidente del Consejo de Ministros de Comercio y demás representantes de los países que hacen 
parte de la Organización de Estados del Caribe Oriental y a todo su equipo  en Ginebra.  
4.68.   Agradecemos el análisis y los comentarios presentados por la ponente, Embajadora 
Nadia  Theodore de Canadá. Los elementos que ha expuesto han contribuido a enriquecer esta 
discusión. Igualmente reconocemos el dedicado trabajo de la Secretaría y  de las Autoridades de los 
países en la elaboración de los informes.  
4.69.   Colombia y los países de la Organización de Estados del Caribe Oriental compartimos 
escenarios regionales y multilaterales.  
4.70.   En particular, en el ámbito bilateral y regional tenemos con el CARICOM un Acuerdo de Alcance 
Parcial sobre Comercio y Cooperación Económica y Técnica desde mediados de los años 90, del cual 
ustedes hacen parte.  
4.71.   Es en este escenario que se ha desarrollado un plan de cooperación para compartir 
conocimiento, experiencias y buenas prácticas en programas e instrumentos para aumentar la 
productividad y competitividad, promover exportaciones e inversiones, fortalecer emprendimientos 
e innovación, formular e imple mentar políticas de turismo sostenible, facilitar el comercio y apoyar 
la actividad artesanal.  
4.72.   Estas actividades han buscado complementar nuestro acuerdo comercial, buscando una visión 
más amplia que permita impulsar los flujos comerciales bilaterales y de  inversión.  
4.73.   Quisiera en este espacio saludar el compromiso de la Organización de Estados del Caribe 
Oriental con el sistema multilateral de comercio, destacando no solo este cuarto examen de sus 
políticas comerciales sino su ratificación del Acuerdo sobre Facilitación del Comercio, el cual puede 
servir como instrumento catalizador de la Unión  Aduanera que está en proceso de construcción 
desde 2011.  
4.74.   También quisiera resaltar nuestra coincidencia con elementos de su política comercial como 
la promoción de las  micro, pequeñas y medianas empresas, la adopción de medidas para respaldar 
y facilitar las operaciones comerciales, el fomento a nuevas oportunidades de empleo y la 
diversificación de la economía.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.75.   De hecho, también coincidimos con el espíritu de varios ob jetivos de política para el sector 
agrícola, entre ellos la diversificación hacia exportaciones no tradicionales, la mitigación de la 
pobreza rural, la seguridad alimentaria, la promoción del agroturismo y la resiliencia frente al cambio 
climático.  
4.76.   Quisier a concluir mi intervención invitando a los países parte de la Organización de Estados 
del Caribe Oriental para que se sumen al Acuerdo de Arbitraje de Apelación Interino Multi -parte 
(MPIA)  lo cual redundará en beneficio de todos y del funcionamiento y cred ibilidad de la OMC. 
Adicionalmente, valorando los lazos diplomáticos, comerciales y de cooperación que se han venido 
fortaleciendo progresivamente entre nuestros países, por lo cual deseo un exitoso cierre del proceso 
de examen de sus políticas comerciales . 
BRAZIL  
4.77.   Let me start by extending a warm welcome to the delegation of the Organisation of Eastern 
Caribbean States OECS -WTO Members, headed by H .E. Minister Everly Paul Chet Greene.  
4.78.   Brazil thanks the OECS Commission and its WTO Member States for the engag ement in this 
fourth Review of their trade policies and practices, especially for providing Members with an overview 
of the OECS ' economic performance, trade policies, and adherence to the multilateral trading 
system.  
4.79.   We would also like to express our app reciation to the WTO Secretariat for its thorough and 
comprehensive Report, as well as to you, Chair, and the discussant, Ambassador Nadia  Theodore, 
for your contribution to a successful trade monitoring exercise.  
4.80.   Brazil attaches great importance to trade  policy reviews, understanding that they contribute 
to enhancing transparency and predictability for trade stakeholders. In the current context of 
multiple crises - the COVID -19 pandemic, climate change, and international conflicts - information 
is one of the most important tools that the WTO's Members have at their disposal to cooperate and 
coordinate in order to find a resilient path to growth and sustainable development.  
4.81.   While acknowledging that the trend of economic growth and improvement of other econ omic 
indicators in the Eastern Caribbean have been affected by the COVID -19 pandemic, Brazil notes with 
satisfaction that OECS economies are currently on the path to recovery. In this regard, Brazil is 
pleased to have carried out cooperation activities wit h the OECS Secretariat to fight the pandemic, 
through which we were able to deliver medicines, test kits, and vaccines to some of the 
organization's members.  
4.82.   Moving on to WTO issues, we appreciate that, during the period under review, the OECS 
members rat ified the Trade Facilitation Agreement and continued their efforts to amend legislation 
to allow them to fully implement the WTO Agreements.   
4.83.   Brazil believes that the commitment of Eastern Caribbean countries to the multilateral trading 
system is an impor tant element for strengthening regional integration and promoting economic 
development. In this sense, Brazil commends the efforts made by OECS countries to further 
harmonize and modernize their customs legislation, especially for making more use of electr onic 
tools in their procedures.   
4.84.   Transparency and harmonization are crucial elements for more open and efficient trade flows. 
Brazil, therefore, invites the OECS -WTO Members to closely engage with other WTO Members by 
notifying relevant trade measures to the respective committees, especially in the case of SPS 
measures, which have a direct impact on agricultural trade and, therefore, on food security.  
4.85.   Let us have now a closer look on the bilateral trade relations between Brazil and the OECS.  
4.86.   In spite of th e recent setbacks caused by the crises, Brazil and the OECS countries have 
managed to preserve an important trade flow. Although bilateral trade flows remain modest between 
OECS -WTO Members and Brazil, at just over USD  250 million in 2021, it more than dou bled if 
compared to 2020, the first year of the pandemic.   WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.87.   For the coming years, we see potential not only to improve numbers in the existing exchange 
of goods and services between our countries but also for further diversification and complementarity. 
Brazil is committed to strengthening our partnership with OECS countries, and we are eager to 
explore new opportunities to expand our bilateral trade portfolio beyond primary goods. It is worth 
noting that, not long ago, when President Lula first served as B razil's President, Brazil 's trade with 
OECS countries went from USD 8 million, in 2003 to USD 2.8 billion in 2010. With President Lula 
back to office, we expect that our renewed engagement with our partners from Latin  America and 
the Caribbean can bring forward a similar boost in our commercial relations.  
4.88.   Let me conclude, by wishing the delegation of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean 
States -WTO Members a very successful Trade Policy Review  
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.89.   May I warm ly welcome the OECS delegation, led by the Honourable Everly Paul Chet Greene, 
to its fourth  Trade Policy Review. We are grateful to the OECS Members and the WTO Secretariat 
for their reports, and to you and our equally distinguished discussant, Ambassador  Nadia  Theodore, 
for your insightful comments.  
4.90.   The countries of the OECS are of course nations with whom we have long and enduring ties, 
most members of the Commonwealth, some even sharing the same head of state, to be crowned 
this very week, and many of w hose people have enriched the society, economy , and culture of the 
UK – and for that, I thank them. We were delighted that our Foreign Office Minister David  Rutley 
was able to visit the OECS Secretariat in beautiful S aint Lucia in March and we look forward  to the 
UK-Caribbean Forum with Foreign Secretary Cleverly in June.  
4.91.   Let me also thank the Governments of the OECS countries for ratifying the CARIFORUM -UK 
Economic Partnership Agreement. We are grateful for their collaboration in the implementation of 
the EPA. The UK looks forward to continuing work with the CARIFORUM States to make the EPA a 
meaningful, living agreement, an Agreement that creates opportunities for both Caribbean and UK 
businesses.  
4.92.   We must stay alive to the individual challenges Members of  this Organization face. As such, 
let me highlight the unjust environmental disparities faced by OECS Members. We must seek to 
champion trade and climate at the WTO but also make it central to our own policies.  
4.93.   Following the destruction caused across the north -eastern Caribbean, by Hurricane Maria back 
in 2017, I would also like to show my support and wish Dominica luck in becoming the first "climate 
resilient " nation.  
4.94.   The UK also look forward to seeing the benefits of the regional agricultural  policy introduced 
over the review period, which will, we hope, reduce rural poverty and build resilience against climate 
change.  
4.95.   Multilaterally, the UK has been a strong advocate of SIDS, combining our own expertise, 
convening power and multilateral influ ence to seek action on the challenges that SIDS face. This 
was demonstrated throughout our COP presidency, where we gave a voice to the SIDS whose 
experience on the front line of climate change helped galvanise the world into action.   
4.96.   In December  2022, th e UK launched the Principles for Improved Aid Impact in SIDS at the 
Effective Development Cooperation Summit in Geneva, alongside Canada and the Alliance of Small 
Island Sates (AOSIS). We very much look forward to working with the international community t o 
drive action on SIDS climate and economic resilience ahead of the pivotal UN SIDS Summit.  
4.97.   I am also keen to highlight the important and influential voice of the OECS within the 
Commonwealth Small States Office, an organi zation the UK is very proud to su pport.  
4.98.   Let me also address certain areas of market access with OECS Members, where the UK sees 
room for progress. The UK is keen to reduce barriers to trade where we can and are pleased to see 
that the Chief Veterinary Officers in Dominica and S aint Lucia have agreed to conduct a Risk 
Assessment to the UK to remove the ban on bovine and other meats. Although the barrier currently WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  stands as high priority, I am encouraged by the now swift movement towards a resolution. I hope 
that soon our succulent British b eef and lamb will be used in Dominican households and restaurants. 
The UK believes that sharing best practice and recent data will allow us to progress this more 
effectively.   
4.99.   Here in Geneva, we of course recogni ze the capacity constraints the OECS team f aces. That 
being said, we would encourage greater WTO notifications, especially around agriculture and SPS. 
Making use of technical assistance and capacity building where necessary.  
4.100.   Nevertheless, despite having a very small team in Geneva, I would like to  praise the OECS 
for its proactive and pragmatic multilateral presence. Few would disagree that the OECS delegation 
punches well above its weight, or even its height. And let me in that respect congratulate my notably 
tall friend, Ambassador  Murdoch.  
4.101.   To focus on some of the multilateral successes, let me first congratulate OECS nations on 
ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement over the review period.  
4.102.   Let me also highlight the OECS ' positive engagement with Dispute Settlement Reform, the 
IFD and e-commerce work programmes, as well as fisheries negotiations. All of which have 
demonstrated the constructive cooperation the OECS brings to this Organization.  
4.103.   Last but far from least, we welcome the OECS ' support for the Joint Declaration on Women 's 
Economic Empowerment adopted at MC11 and the domestic efforts its Members have outlined in 
this trade policy review to promote women 's economic empowerment.  
4.104.   To conclude, we are grateful to our OECS friends for engaging in this important transparency 
exercise and wish them a most successful fourth Review, just as look forward to growing the trading 
and political relationship to which we are so committed.  
ARGENTINA  
4.105.   Quisiéramos dar la más cordial bienvenida a la delegación de los Miembros de la OMC 
integrantes de la Organización de Estados del Caribe Oriental, encabezada por el honorable 
Sr. Everly Paul Chet Greene, Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores y Comercio de Antigua  y Barbuda, y 
Presidente del Consejo de Ministros y Ministras de comercio de la O ECO. Hacemos, asimismo, 
propicia la oportunidad para augurarle el mayor de los éxitos en este ejercicio.  
4.106.   Agradecemos, al mismo tiempo, los informes preparados por los Miembros de la OMC 
integrantes de la OECO y por la Secretaría, así como a la Excma.  Sra. Embajadora Nadia  Theodore 
de Canadá por sus comentarios. Estos elementos nos han brindado la información necesaria para 
profundizar nuestra comprensión de las políticas, las prácticas comerciales y el entorno económico 
de los Miembros aquí presentes de la OECO.  
4.107.   La reunión sostenida en febrero del año pasado entre el Presidente de Argentina y altas 
autoridades de los Miembros de la Organización de Estados del Caribe Oriental, demuestra 
claramente que los vínculos entre nuestros países se encuentran en un exc elente momento. 
Deseamos reiterar que damos mucha importancia a esta relación estratégica y esperamos seguir 
fortaleciendo los lazos que nos unen.  
4.108.   En este sentido, destacamos que Argentina se encuentra en condiciones de desarrollar 
proyectos de cooperació n para lograr el desarrollo del sector productivo de alimentos, aportando 
experiencia, material genético y maquinaria. En concreto, Argentina ha financiado a través del Fondo 
Argentino para la Cooperación decenas de proyectos de este tipo en la región del Caribe. 
Reconocemos que la seguridad alimentaria es una cuestión importante para la región y estamos 
convencidos de que desarrollar proyectos en esta área es una excelente manera de enfrentar los 
desafíos que existen al respecto.   
4.109.   El comercio bilateral en tre Argentina y los Miembros objeto del examen, concentrado 
principalmente en productos agropecuarios, es relativamente pequeño. Frente a esta situación, 
reiteramos nuestro pleno compromiso de fortalecer las relaciones comerciales en beneficio de 
nuestros sectores productivos.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.110.   A este respecto, consideramos importante la apertura del mercado CARICOM para los 
productos cárnicos argentinos. Expresamos nuestra esperanza de que se llegue a un arreglo 
satisfactorio en un futuro previsible, que resulte en el leva ntamiento de las barreras de acceso al 
mercado. La apertura de mercado contribuirá a garantizar la seguridad alimentaria de la población 
de esta región en cuanto aumentará la disponibilidad y diversidad de alimentos.  
4.111.   Nos alegra observar que las economías de la OECO se encuentran en un proceso de 
recuperación luego de la pandemia de COVID -19. En 2021, las economías volvieron a la senda del 
crecimiento, experimentando un aumento del PBI real del 6,2%. Estamos convencidos que con las 
políticas adecuadas será posible abordar los diversos desafíos que enfrentan y asegurar el 
crecimiento en los próximos años.  
4.112.   Argentina felicita a los Miembros de la OMC integrantes de la OECO por su compromiso con 
el sistema multilateral de comercio basado en normas; y su particip ación constructiva en diversas 
esferas del trabajo de la Organización. En particular, deseamos destacar el rol activo y constructivo 
de la OECO en las discusiones informales sobre el Sistema de Solución de Diferencias de la OMC. 
Asimismo, destacamos la con tribución que han realizado Antigua  y Barbuda, Dom inica y Granada 
en la elaboración del capítulo sobre trato especial y diferenciado de la Iniciativa Conjunta sobre 
Facilitación de Inversiones para el Desarrollo, el cual constituye una parte fundamental de l futuro 
acuerdo.  
4.113.   Con respecto a sus obligaciones multilaterales, observamos que los Miembros de la OMC 
integrantes de la OECO continúan experimentado dificultades para presentar notificaciones a la OMC, 
debido a la falta de capacidad técnica, recursos hu manos y los efectos de la pandemia de COVID -19. 
Creemos que esta es otra área en la que se requiere trabajar.  
4.114.   Por último, y en el marco de este examen de política comercial, hemos formulado una serie 
de preguntas sobre el sistema informático aduanero SIDU NEA World, los programas de incentivos 
para la inversión extranjera, la seguridad alimentaria, entre otras cuestiones. Agradecemos de 
antemano las respuestas, las cuales serán debidamente estudiadas por nuestros y nuestras colegas 
en Buenos  Aires; y espera mos continúe el fluido diálogo bilateral entre nuestras delegaciones.  
4.115.   Además de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de intercambiar 
consideraciones sobre las prácticas comerciales de los Miembros de la OMC integrantes de la OECO, 
permítanos señalar, una vez más, la relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en todos sus 
aspectos y desear a los Miembros de la OECO una exitosa conclusión del presente examen.  
ECUADOR  
4.116.   Quisiera empezar por saludar a usted, estimado Embajador Saqer Abdu llah Almoqbel, en 
esta la primera reunión que preside del Órgano de Examen de  Políticas Comerciales. Le auguro todo 
éxito en sus funciones.  
4.117.   Me gustaría también dar la bienvenida al señor Ministro de Comercio de Antigua  y Barbuda, 
Paul Chet Greene, Represen tante de los Miembros de la Organización de  Estados del Caribe Oriental 
(OECO), y agradecerle por su presentación esta mañana.  
4.118.   Aprovecho también para saludar a los altos representantes de los Miembros de la OECO  aquí 
presentes, y a mi apreciado colega el Embajador Colin  Murdoch, cuya  infatigable actividad 
representando al OECO en la OMC aprecio de manera especial.  Mi reconocimiento a la Embajadora 
Nadia  Theodore, ponente de este ejercicio, por  sus valiosas observaciones.  
4.119.   Ecuador desea felicitar al OECO por su participación en este cuarto examen de  políticas 
comerciales (EPC). Es un ejercicio de transparencia y compromiso con los  objetivos de la 
Organización Mundial del Comercio por parte de Antigua  y Barbuda,  Dominica, Granada, 
Saint Kitts y Nevis, Santa  Lucía y San  Vicente  y las Granadinas.  
4.120.   El período que abarca este examen estuvo marcado para la OECO, como para el resto  del 
mundo, por el impacto de la pandemia COVID -19 así como por el subsecuente lapso  de inestabilidad 
económica, que golpeó de manera es pecial al sector servicios, que es  uno de los pilares económicos 
de los países de la OECO.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.121.   Apreciamos la resiliencia mostrada por los países Miembros de la OECO al enfrentar  los duros 
momentos pandemia del COVID -19, cuyas consecuencias más severas se  registraron en el área del 
turismo, clave para los países de la Organización según hemos  escuchado en los informes 
presentados, particularmente por la ponente. Su impacto en  su desarrollo económico y social 
significó una drástica reducción del PIB y de sus  exportaciones.  
4.122.   A más de ello, la región se ha encontrado expuesta a fenómenos naturales que han  llevado 
también disrupciones en la economía, el comercio y la vida de la gente de los  países. Como se puede 
ver, la discusión de temas relevantes a comercio y medio  ambiente son claves para los miembros 
de la OECO, y el tratamiento de los mismos en  la agenda de la OMC reviste especial importancia 
para ellos.  
4.123.   No obstante los factores señalados, destaco de los informes presentados por la  Secretaría y 
de los Miembros ba jo Examen, el serio compromiso de la OECO con las  obligaciones que se derivan 
del sistema multilateral de comercio y de las negociaciones  regionales y bilaterales, entre otros para 
atender sus obligaciones de notificación.  
4.124.   Tomamos nota de los retos del comercio agrícola para la seguridad alimentaria de países  en 
importante medida son importadores de alimentos. Ecuador, como un productor y  exportador neto 
de productos agrícolas, está siempre disponible a trabajar con OECO en  una productiva interacción 
dentro del citado rubro.  
4.125.   En general, auguramos que los programas de los miembros de la OECO para promover  la 
diversificación de su economía, las inversiones e intercambio comercial, la  competitividad de su 
sector exportador y la esfera de servicios, rindan ef ectos positivos  a fin de incrementar el número 
de contrapartes económicas, los ingresos derivados del  comercio y el desarrollo sostenible de los 
miembros de la organización.  
4.126.   Ecuador aprecia la participación de los OECO en la agenda de la OMC. Destaco en  especial 
su trabajo en materia del recientemente adoptado Acuerdo sobre Subsidios a la  Pesca, comercio 
electrónico, inversiones, mypimes e interacción con otros países de  economías pequeñas y 
vulnerables. Mi país se permite invitar a los miembros de la  OECO que aún no lo han hecho, a 
considerar sumarse a la Iniciativa sobre  Contaminación por Plásticos, que tiene entre sus puntos 
importantes a la consideración  de la polución en los océanos y protección del medio ambiente, temas 
que son  relevantes para toda la humanidad y en particular para las naciones con proyección a los  
mares.  
4.127.   Ecuador confía que sus lazos comerciales bilaterales con los países miembros  integrantes de 
la OECO se continúen fortaleciendo, en el marco de las normas de la  OMC. Estamos seguros que , 
nuestro intercambio bilateral crea cimientos comerciales  mutuamente beneficiosos para incrementar 
la relación entre nuestros pueblos. Mi país  augura un exitoso desarrollo del examen de política 
comercial a los países miembros  que integran la OECO.  
MAURIT IUS  
4.128.   We join other delegations in warmly welcoming the high -level delegation of the Organisation 
of the Eastern Caribbean States OECS -WTO Members led by H.E.  Mr Everly Paul Chet Greene , 
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Chair o f the OECS Council of Ministers of Trade. I also 
acknowledge the presence of H.E.  Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of 
Saint Kitts and Nevis ; H.E. Peters, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of 
Saint Vincent  and Grenadines ; and H.E. St. Bernard, Special Envoy of Grenada.  
4.129.   We seize this opportunity to thank all OECS Members and the Secretariat for their respective 
reports. We also thank today 's discussant, H.  E. Nadia  Theodore, for her insight.  
4.130.   We are pleased to participate in this  fourth Trade Policy Review of OECS -WTO Members. We 
thank the OECS delegation for highlighting trade and trade related measures adopted individually 
and collectively to address the challenges that they face. The period under review being even more 
difficul t as we were all affected by the COVID -19 pandemic and from which we are still recovering.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.131.   Mauritius may be some 15,000  kms away from the OECS Sub -region; two oceans and one 
continent do separate us. And yet, we can connect to what we have just heard. We s hare a common 
history and as a small island developing state, we share the same realities, including the inherent 
constraints and difficulties which have been reflected in the reports such as limited production base, 
remoteness from major markets and vulne rability to external stocks and natural disasters. To be 
able to thrive in a competitive world economy despite such weaknesses, requires good leadership 
and well thought strategies. Being highly reliant on tourism, we note the serious challenges that 
most OECS members have faced during the pandemic that brought economic activities almost to a 
halt and even reversing gains from years of steady growth.  
4.132.   We commend OECS members for their efforts towards reforming their economies and 
adopting appropriate legisla tion. We note that OECS members have amended their International 
Business Companies legislation to maintain accounting information in line with international 
standards. They also apply several incentive schemes, including sector specific incentives such as  
for the tourism sector under the Hotel Aid Act, to encourage and promote both domestic and foreign 
investment.  
4.133.   Mauritius would like to further commend OECS members for their continued efforts to amend 
their legislation to allow them to fully implement the  WTO Agreements. We acknowledge the 
resource constraints faced by these countries in drafting of legislation and regulations, and 
eventually in the implementation given the need to create new administrative infrastructures. We 
join them in their call for f lexibilities to take account of the developmental needs of SVEs. For 
instance, the reinforcement of support mechanisms, technical assistance and capacity building 
especially in fulfilling our commitments at the WTO as well as for effective participation in  
negotiations and rule -making.  
4.134.   The Secretariat Report clearly identifies fisheries as one area where there is food 
self-sufficiency and acknowledges the key role of the sector in terms of food security and export 
earnings. Thus, every time OECS members and  other SIDS call for policy space and SDT during the 
fisheries subsidies negotiations, other Members would surely listen to us, understand our position, 
and accede to our request. The second wave of the negotiations must deliver on sustainability while 
ensuring that small and vulnerable Members are able to develop their fisheries sector in future.  
4.135.   Let me acknowledge the excellent work done by our colleague, Ambassador  Murdoch and 
his team in Geneva - be it on fisheries, agriculture, e -commerce, TRIPS waiver or any other issues 
of interest under discussion at the WTO. They confirm that for small island developing states "size 
is not destiny ". What we need is commitment and proactiveness in pursuing our common agenda. 
We, therefore, look forward to working wit h you in this regard.  
4.136.   To conclude, Mauritius wishes a successful Review to the OECS delegation.  
JAMAICA  
4.137.   Jamaica joins others in extending a very warm welcome to the delegations of the OECS, led 
by the Honourable Everly Paul Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign  Affairs  of Antigua  and Barbuda, and 
Chair of the OECS Council of Ministers, to their fourth  Trade Policy Review.  
4.138.   We thank the Chair, our discussant, and the Secretariat team for their respective 
contributions to this exercise.  
4.139.   Jamaica aligns itself with t he statement s to be delivered by the distinguished representatives 
of CARICOM and the ACP Group s.  
4.140.   Jamaica and the respective Member States of the OECS enjoy cordial relations, built on a 
shared history, culture, our designation as small island developing states (SIDs), and our mutual 
vulnerabilities to the devastating impacts of climate change and extreme weather events. As 
highlighted by the Secretariat 's Report, exogenous shocks, and major health emergencies such as 
the COVID -19 pandemic, sign ificantly undermined the collective efforts of the OECS -WTO Member 
States to achieved fiscal consolidation during the review period. Moreover, recovery from the 
COVID -19 pandemic has been uneven for the affected Member States and is compounded by rising 
price levels and a challenging global environment.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.141.   Jamaica, therefore, applauds the OECS -WTO Member States on the progress achieved since 
their last Review exercise and thank them for their comprehensive Report. The OECS -WTO Member 
States demonstrate an end uring commitment to deepening regional integration, particularly at the 
sub-regional level, and the wider Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Several OECS Member States 
have responsibility within the CARICOM Quasi Cabinet, for critical areas of Community Develo pment 
including services, labour, science and technology and transport, and continue to advance the 
Community 's efforts in this regard.  
4.142.   Additionally, the sub -region continues to work towards the expansion of regional and 
international trade through active implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy 
(CSME) and several trade agreements, including the CARIFORUM -EU Economic Partnership 
Agreement and the CARIFORUM -UK Economic Partnership Agreement.  
4.143.   Bearing in mind the vulnerabilities previously highl ighted, we cannot overstate the 
importance of a fair, open, and predictable rules -based trading system to our collective pursuits of 
sustainable development and economic growth. As small vulnerable economies, OECS -WTO Member 
States have actively pursued th e strengthening of the WTO, and the multilateral trading system. We 
view favourably the submissions of the sub -region on issues such as Investment Facilitation, and 
the E-Commerce Work Programme on Digital Divide and Moratorium.  
4.144.   Against this background, I  use this opportunity to express Jamaica 's appreciation to 
Ambassador Colin  Murdoch, Head of the OECS Mission in Geneva for his delegation 's active 
engagement in the work of the Organi zation, especially in the negotiations leading to the successful 
outcome  of the 12th Ministerial Conference in June  2022. We are further heartened by the 
constructive engagement by the OECS Mission on follow -up actions to implement the outcomes from 
the Ministerial Conference.  
4.145.   Jamaica is pleased with the high priority that OECS -WTO Member States attach to meeting 
their attendant WTO obligations. We note positively their ratification of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement. In addition, Members have undertaken other reforms to ensure that their foreign 
investment regimes are WTO -compliant. OECS -WTO Members have sought to enhance their 
respective investment and business climates by modernizing customs legislation, implementing 
trade facilitation measures, and enacting legislation on government procurement. A number of 
OECS -WTO Memb ers have also made amendments to their intellectual property rights (IPR) 
legislation, which demonstrates the high regard being given to ensuring that businesses and 
individuals can reap the full benefit of their inventions – a crucial component for succes sful trade. 
We welcome indications that the region will pursue the establishment of a Regional Patent Body, 
and an OECS Regional Directorate on IPRs. Jamaica would encourage collaboration with and greater 
involvement in WIPO, and stands ready to share our own experiences in this area.  
4.146.   Members have raised questions related to the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market 
and Economy; possible implications of the implementation of the Medium -term Fiscal 
Strategy  (MTFS); dispute settlement reforms; the metho dology for assessing the Customs Service 
Charge  (CSC); and plans on draft legislation on illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing 
among other issues. We look forward to the additional exchanges on these and other aspects of the 
OECS -WTO Members ' trade policies that may be raised during today 's discussions.  
4.147.   Jamaica, however, notes from the Secretariat 's Report that the sub -region 's efforts to meet 
their implementation and reporting/notification obligations are significantly hampered by human 
resour ce constraints. We, therefore, WTO Members to continue exploring avenues for targeted 
assistance to small developing countries through aid -for-trade initiatives and capacity building 
initiatives in this regard. Moreover, within the context of ongoing effor ts to boost trade policy 
implementation, and to improve trade and doing business within the sub -region, Jamaica also urges 
other WTO Members to ensure that negotiations take into account the need for adequate policy 
space and special and differential treat ment for its vulnerable Members such as those within the 
OECS -sub-region, and to consider the consequences of preference erosion for the region.  
4.148.   In conclusion, Jamaica looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the OECS -WTO 
Members in our joint eff orts to advance our mutual interests within the multilateral trading system. 
We wish the delegations of the OECS the very best for a successful fourth Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  BARBADOS  
4.149.   Barbados is very pleased to welcome the Honourable Ministers and Heads of Delegation of 
the Organisation of Ester Caribbean States (OECS) and the high level delegation from the OECS 
Secretariat.  
4.150.   At the beginning, Barbados would like to put on record the exemplary manner in which 
Ambassador  Murdoch  and the OECS team in Geneva lea d and represent not just the OECS, by the 
Caribbean, here on the ground.  
4.151.   As a fellow small, capacity constrained developing countries we appreciate how challenging 
the preparation of the TPR is. We commend you on what has clearly been a high level of plan ning 
and coordination that went into undertaking this TPR as a Group of Members. This is true 
commitment to the WTO and its TPR process.  
4.152.   We thank Minister Everly Paul Chet Greene  for an instructive and insightful opening 
statement, and the discussant, H.E.  Ms Nadia  Theodore (Canada), for her astute perspectives in 
laying out the context for this TPR. The usual thorough preparation of the WTO Secretariat for this 
Trade Policy Review is also appreciated.  
4.153.   We know the economic vulnerabilities of small states su ch as the OECS and the increasing 
challenges posed by the climate crisis. It is therefore no surprise that the period under review, was 
marked by significant external environmental and economic shocks, including the COVID -19 
pandemic, that severely impacte d the trade and economic prospects of these countries.   
4.154.   The pandemic disproportionately impacted small island developing states, largely because 
of the sudden and protracted halt in critical tourism receipts, supply chain issues, rising energy and 
food pr ices that caused the increase of consumer prices and led to the narrowing of real GDP by up 
to 24%. This was a notable difference in what pertained in the years directly preceding the pandemic, 
where real GDP increased steadily between 2013 to 2019 before sharply contracting by 17% on 
average in 2020.  
4.155.   While OECS Members are currently in the process of recovery, the pace of recovery has 
varied across its Membership. Recovery continues to be challenging given the increased costs in 
transportation since the pa ndemic; reduced or halted airlift which has limited tourism arrivals from 
reaching pre -pandemic levels; burgeoning debt levels brought on by structural challenges and the 
compounding effect of financing climate adaptation and other development priorities.  
4.156.   It is clear that if small island developing states like Barbados and the OECS are to rise above 
our inherent challenges, we must seek to embark on more innovative and forward -thinking 
strategies. The OECS trajectory based on regional integration; reinventi ng their economies; valuing 
the environment; building resilience; and advancing equity and inclusion is a welcome pathway.  
4.157.   We are particularly keen to see the evolution of the "2018 Development Strategy: Shaping 
our Shared Prosperity 2019 to 2028 " which us es a more systematic approach to holistically respond 
to the ongoing and emerging threats to the social and economic development of the OECS and its 
people through: investing in renewable energy, strengthening regulation, improving the business 
environment , highlighting the financial sector; boosting value -added in tourism, expanding digital 
services, and promoting the sustainable ocean economy and agriculture; while also seeking to close 
the skills gap, by enhancing the quality of education, and improving social protection.  
4.158.   The OECS is an international inter -governmental organi zation committed to regional 
integration in the Eastern Caribbean. It has built an integration architecture, which includes 
institutions of functional, economic, monetary , and technic al cooperation and is a viewed as a 
well-established and respected sub -regional integration mechanism. The pace of OECS integration 
is an important model for the wider CARICOM integration efforts, and it is an essential building block 
towards that goal. In  fact, the manner in which the OECS works together is a lesson for all of us 
around this table.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.159.   Here at the WTO we work very closely and look forward to continuing our strategic 
engagement, including on the trade, environment and development nexus, invest ment facilitation, 
small economies, ecommerce and WTO Reform.  
4.160.   In closing, Barbados wishes the six OECS -WTO Members a successful conclusion to its fourth 
Trade Policy Review.  
FIJI 
4.161.   Warm Greetings to the distinguished delegations of the OECS to its fourth Tra de Policy 
Review today.  
4.162.   We recogni ze the Honourable Everly Paul Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade 
and Chair, OECS Council of Ministers of Trade; Honourable Denzil  Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs 
and International Trade of S aint Kitts and Nevis ; and the Honourable Keisal  Peters, Minister of 
Foreign Affairs and Trade of S aint Vincent  and the Grenadines ; as well as H .E. Mr Colin Murdoch, 
Ambassador of OECS Mission in Geneva including delegates and officials who are part of the 
delegation  based in capital and Geneva.  
4.163.   We also recogni ze and thank H .E. Ambassador Nadia  Theodore, P ermanent Representative  
of Canada for her thorough review of OECS ' Report.  
4.164.   As a small island developing state like the OECS, we share many common opportunities and 
challenges. The multilateral trading system is critical to provide avenues for development through 
the equitable and proportionate application of trade rules that should enhance the trade vitality of 
small islands like OECS.  
4.165.   The OECS desp ite such challenges have ascribed and progressed and commend the valuable 
contribution of each of the OECS member states for all their commitment towards working together 
through the regional integration framework or the OECS Economic Union established in 2011. The 
countries commitment has bear fruits which culminated in many achievements over the years.  
4.166.   The progress made to address food security through the Agriculture Systems Transformation 
strategy in May  2022 as well as OECS efforts to aspire to fulfil  its TFA commitments inter alia are 
highly commendable. OECS should sustain such good trade practices including adding value to its 
commodities. Digital trade through e -commerce is the way for the future and as small islands this 
is an opportunity that cou ld be tailored with tourism marketing to diversify into other potential high 
value products.  
4.167.   Despite the challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters, the OECS has proved 
itself as a resilient group of countries who stood the odds against thei r vulnerabilities. This was even 
evident post COVID -19 pandemic, though the economic impact has been substantive on its tourism 
industry, which is the backbone of the economy, measures instituted to recover have been successful 
as noted in the post pandemi c figures.  
4.168.   As a vulnerable small economy, international cooperation as well as multilateralism are 
pivotal. Small economies are dependent on rules -based system for a predictable trading environment 
as well as for sustainability. Small economies are food d ependents as in the case of OECS, food 
security is key for such NFIDCs group of countries and WTO should assure protection through trade 
flows.  
4.169.   Development institutions must take heed of development needs of small island developing 
states and offer specia l lending flexibilities in their favour. WTO rules must apply proportionally and 
provide policy space including in the fisheries subsidies agreement where OECS global value capture 
is insignificant including its subsidies. This would be the only way in whi ch multilateral trading system 
could make tangible contributions to address such needs.  
4.170.   Finally, Fiji would like to convey its gratitude to the OECS delegation in Geneva led by 
Ambassador Colin  Murdoch and his able support team, Mr  Joel Richards for their contributions in the 
WTO negotiations including through our partnership as ACP family. Our statement aligns accordingly 
with the ACP Group statement to be delivered by Kenya.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.171.   I wish the OECS delegation every success in its Review.  
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO  
4.172.   Trinidad  and Tobago aligns i tself with the statements to be delivered by the CARICOM and 
ACP Groups.  
4.173.   Trinidad  and Tobago is pleased to participate in the fourth Trade Policy Review  of the 
OECS -WTO Members. We join others in welcoming to Geneva and to the WTO the Honourable 
Everly  Paul Chet Greene, H.E.  Andrea  St. Bernard, H.E.  Steven  Goldstein, Mr  Ricky  Jn Baptiste , and 
the Honourable Keisal  Peters, as well as Dr  Didacus  Jules and a ll other capital -based officials who 
have travelled to Geneva for this review. We extend to our fellow CARICOM member States best 
wishes for a successful and productive Review. We also take this opportunity to commend 
Ambassador Colin  Murdoch and Mr  Joel Richards for their invaluable contributions at the WTO and 
within the CARICOM Group, not least of all on WTO Reform, the development dimension, small and 
vulnerable economies, fisheries subsidies, investment facilitation and electronic commerce, among  
other key files.  
4.174.   In addition, Chair, we congratulate you on assuming the chairmanship of this Body and for 
your stewardship of this meeting. We also thank the Secretariat and the OECS -WTO Members for 
the preparation of their respective reports ahead of th is review. Thank you as well to Ambassador 
Nadia  Theodore of Canada for embracing the role of discussant, for your thoughtful reflections on 
key developments relating to the economic and trade policy measures undertaken by the Members 
in question and for e ngaging with the main elements emerging from the questions posed by 
Members.  
4.175.   We applaud the firm commitment demonstrated by the Members under review to the 
rules-based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core. That commitment has been amply 
demonstrated in this house, where OECS -WTO Members play an outsized role despite notable human 
resource constraints. We recall Minister Peters ' role as Minister Facilitator on electronic commerce 
at MC12. We also recogni ze the OECS Mission 's tireless work wit hin the ACP Group on WTO Reform, 
as well as within the CARICOM Group on investment facilitation and trade facilitation, and as 
Coordinator of the Group in 2020 and 2021. The OECS -WTO Members have been consistent and 
vocal advocates on systemic consideratio ns relating to development, such as on preservation of the 
right to special and differential treatment, including but not limited to access to technical assistance 
and capacity building, and on meaningful integration of developing country Members into the global 
trading system. These Members have also been insistent that discussions and negotiations at the 
WTO must be invariably inclusive and transparent, duly taking into account the constraints and 
legitimate concerns of small delegations.  
4.176.   We are all well aware that the COVID -19 pandemic has had devastating impacts on the SVEs 
of the Caribbean region and elsewhere. OECS Members ' economies have traditionally been 
services -focused economies, with services contributing approximately 65% of GDP in 2021, 
accordi ng to the Secretariat 's Report. Reliance on tourism -related services as a key source of 
revenue meant that OECS -WTO Members were profoundly impacted by the global pandemic, as 
evidenced in a sharp contraction in GDP by an average of 17% in 2020.  
4.177.   We commen d policy  and decision -makers for the strategic policy approaches undertaken 
during the pandemic and in the broader context of the formidable and interconnected global crises 
we face today. These Members have sought to remain open to international trade, re cogni zing the 
catalytic potential of trade for the pursuit of economic growth and sustainable development, with 
the aim of ensuring the wellbeing of their citizens. Like many other SVEs, OECS -WTO Members are 
net importers of merchandise, and are highly vul nerable to exogenous shocks, climate change, 
extreme weather events and natural disasters, not least of all hurricane Maria in 2017 and the 
La Soufrière volcanic eruption in 2021. It is truly commendable that, despite these catastrophic 
events and their re versal of hard -fought economic and development gains, OECS Members have 
continued to leverage trade policy in the pursuit of their development priorities, while seeking to 
remain within the boundaries prescribed by WTO rules and obligations. We commend eff orts to build 
capacity to trade in key sectors, such as in respect of digitally -deliverable services exports. On this 
note, we commend the Members under review for their robust engagement at the WTO under the 
Work Programme on Electronic Commerce, includin g through useful written submissions.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.178.   In addition to shared commitments in respect of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas and 
the concomitant implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and the Economy, 
Trinidad  and Tobago and the OECS -WTO Members are Partie s to several other trade agreements. 
These include the CARICOM -Colombia Agreement on Trade, Economic and Technical Cooperation, 
the CARICOM -Costa  Rica Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the CARICOM -Cuba Trade and Economic 
Agreement, the CARICOM -Dominican Republic  FTA, the CARIFORUM -EU Economic Partnership 
Agreement (EPA), the CARIFORUM -UK EPA and the CARICOM -Bolivarian Republic of  Venezuela, 
Agreement on Trade and Investment.  
4.179.   As a fellow CARICOM member State, small island developing state (SIDS) and small and 
vulnerable economy (SVE), Trinidad  and Tobago 's fraternal ties, mutual interests and shared 
challenges with the OECS -WTO Members are evident. As such, Trinidad  and Tobago commends the 
efforts of OECS -WTO Members to secure their developmental interests and, in this regard, wishes 
to echo and amplify their call for the consideration of flexibilities needed in the WTO to take account 
of the development challenges and needs of SVEs. We also support the call to expand support 
mechanisms, including technical coope ration, to assist in the fulfilment of WTO commitments. 
The 2015 Nairobi Ministerial Decision on substantially and meaningfully addressing the needs of 
SVEs in every area of WTO work is pertinent in this regard.  
4.180.   In closing, Trinidad  and Tobago applauds OE CS-WTO Members once again on their sterling 
efforts and outsized contributions to our work in this house. We congratulate the delegation in 
advance on the completion of a successful Review.  
GUATEMALA  
4.181.   En nombre de Guatemala, quisiera saludar a las delegacio nes de la Organización de los 
Estados del Caribe Oriental (OECO ), encabezada por el Sr . Everly  Paul Chet Greene, Ministro de 
Relaciones Exteriores y Comercio Exterior y Presidente de la OECO.  
4.182.   Aprovechamos también la ocasión para subrayar el análisis de la  Secretaría de la OMC, 
reflejado en el informe preparado para este examen. Éste último brinda una panorámica muy 
completa y detallada de las políticas comerciales de los miembros de la OECO. De igual forma, 
extendemos nuestro más sincero agradecimiento a l a Embajadora de Canadá, Sra.  Nadia Theodore, 
por su intervención como ponente el día de hoy y la presentación tan acuciosa que amablemente 
compartió con nosotros.  
4.183.   Guatemala valora su relación con los miembros de la OECO, con quienes ha mantenido una 
relación amistosa a lo largo de los años. Ésta se ha visto reflejada en el sólido acercamiento que 
nuestros países han forjado en el marco del Grupo de Economías Pequeñas y Vulnerables (EPV), 
dentro de la OMC. Las conversaciones sostenidas en el seno de este gr upo nos han permitido 
identificar con mayor profundidad las importantes características y retos que compartimos y en este 
sentido, así como unificar esfuerzos hacia la búsqueda de soluciones conjuntas y prestar gran 
atención a las flexibilidades y medidas planteadas destinadas a fortalecer su participación en el 
comercio mundial y mejorar su integración en el sistema multilateral del comercio  
4.184.   En relación con la evaluación del día de hoy, consideramos muy positivo la ratificación de 
Acuerdo de Facilitación d e Comercio, así como los esfuerzos que realizan en cada uno de los países 
para la implementación del mismo.  
4.185.   Cabe también destacar la formulación de la Estrategia de la OECO para el Crecimiento y el 
Desarrollo 2019 -2028 con la que buscan fortalecer los meca nismos que les permitan alcanzar un 
desarrollo sostenible para sus miembros basándose en tres pilares estratégicos: a)  generación de 
crecimiento económico , b) promoción del bienestar humano y social , y c) uso sostenible de los 
recursos naturales.  
4.186.   Para los  Miembros de OECO el turismo es una de las fuentes principales de su economía, por 
tal razón se reconocen los diversos esfuerzos que han realizado para reforzar la competitividad en 
esta área, prueba de ello es la revisión y actualización que realizaran a su Política Común de Turismo 
del año 2011, así como las contribuciones realizadas en el marco de CARICOM a la Política Regional 
de Turismo.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  4.187.   Guatemala reconoce las diversas acciones realizadas por el OECO para el crecimiento de su 
comercio y la diversifica ción de sus exportaciones, lo cual ha realizado a través de herramientas que 
contribuyen a mejorar la competitividad, el desarrollo de las mipymes, y la promoción del comercio, 
función que han delegado a la Unidad de Empresarial Competitiva con sede en Dom inica. 
4.188.   Para finalizar nuestra delegación aplaude los esfuerzos realizados por la OECO durante el 
período estudiado en este informe y les exhorta a continuar avanzando en los desafíos del trabajo 
futuro, no sin antes desearles a la delegación que hoy los re presenta, una exitosa conclusión de su 
examen de políticas comerciales.  
SOUTH  AFRICA  
4.189.   We would like to join the delegations that preceded us in congratulating the Organisation of 
the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) delegation headed by H .E. Mr Chet Greene and his team for 
the fourth Trade Policy Review. We thank the OECS and the Secretariat for their detailed reports. 
We also thank H.E.  Ms Nadia  Theodore of Canada for her observations as a discussant.  
4.190.   The OECS TPR takes place when the world is reelin g from the effects of the COVID -19 crisis. 
As highlighted by both reports, like many other countries, the OECS countries ' economic growth was 
hit by the negative impacts of the pandemic resulting in slowed down economic activity. This was 
further exasperat ed by a series of natural disasters in the region, adding strain to the already limited 
human and financial resource capacities of these economies. Overall, this led to GDP contractions of 
up to 24% with the real GDP of the OECS -WTO Members contracting by 17% on average in 2020.This 
translated to a GDP loss of USD  800 million in global exports for OECS -WTO Members.  
4.191.   However, as noted by both reports, OECS -WTO Members remained resilient and are 
currently in the process of recovery, with GDP having grown by 6. 2% on average in 2021, though 
the pace of recovery has varied across countries. This together with various levels of fiscal stimulus 
packages have seen a rebounding in tourism and tourism related activities.  
4.192.   We note with interest the various reforms and st rategic priorities and that are being 
implemented by the OECS to enhance and improve the trade regime to secure higher and sustained 
levels of economic growth and development, including (i)  the new OECS Growth and Development 
Strategy (OGDS) for 2019 -2028,  which sets out a growth and development path for the OECS and 
represents a systematic approach to holistically respond to the ongoing and emerging threats to the 
social and economic development of the OECS; (ii)  work towards establishing the OECS Economic  
Union to serve as the platform for enhanced growth and development prospects for the OECS region; 
and (iii)  the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), including ultimately a customs union 
with the free circulation of goods.  
4.193.   Being small and vulnerable c ountries, with a narrow economic base, dependent on tourism 
and to a lesser extent financial and government services and construction as major contributors to 
GDP and employment; and noting their challenges as net food importing countries that are exposed 
to external shocks, the post MC12 agenda on the food security work programme to address the 
challenges of Net Food Importing Developing Countries (NFIDCs) becomes even more important for 
the OECS. As WTO Members, we need to collectively reflect on what the  system can do to protect 
the interest of vulnerable economies as they pursue their growth trajectories. Importantly, the 
conclusion of the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement in line with its development mandate of ensuring 
an effective S&D in line with SDG  14.6 is critical to ensure the MTS advances issues that matter and 
broadens the benefits for all its Members.  
4.194.   Given the OECS 's narrow economic base, international trade is fundamental for the OECS 
countries. We therefore commend the OECS for advances it has m ade on implementation of its TFA 
commitments. We note that the average rate of implementation of the TFA for the OECS -WTO 
Members is approximately 68.5%. Challenges around implementation remain and these together 
with any identified gaps, as well as human and financial resource constraints should be discussed 
and addressed in the TFA Committee.  
4.195.   In conclusion, we commend the OECS for the role it plays in the WTO, including its focus on 
promoting and enhancing a Member -driven, open, transparent , and inclusive  multilateral trading 
system, and its active participation in the work of the WTO.  We wish the OECS a successful TPR.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  KENYA ON BEHALF OF THE ACP GROUP  
4.196.   On the occasion of its fourth WTO Trade Policy Review, Kenya on behalf of the ACP Group, 
wishes to congratulate the Organi sation of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). We also present 
our compliments to H.E.  Ms Nadia  Theodore, Ambassador of Canada, for her guidance and analytical 
work as a discussant.  
4.197.   From the outset, I would like to commend the valuab le contribution of each of the OECS 
member States, who are also members of the ACP Group and active participants in their own right, 
to the work at the WTO. On this occasion, OECS members are showing once more that they are 
strong contributors and supporte rs of the multilateral trading system, by striking a balance between 
national economic and developmental policy objectives while building their capacity to adhere to the 
rules of the WTO.  
4.198.   We are all aware that OECS members are seriously vulnerable to exte rnal shocks such as 
natural disasters and continue to sustain a disproportionate high number of hurricanes that disrupt 
trade and adversely affect the region's economies, ecosystems, and human communities. All OECS 
members rely on the tourism sector as it accounts for an average 57% of exports and employs 35% 
up to 90% in some OECS countries. Unfortunately, in 2020 amidst the COVID -19 pandemic, the 
region was not spared from the unprecedented impact of the lockdown and endured sharp declines 
in their econom ic activities. This put an end to six years of consecutive steady growth. Today, 
however, the multifaceted endeavour to tame negative external shocks seem to prevail, yet OECS 
members were resilient. We are pleased to see that data in the OECS shows that s ome members 
have recovered 75% of their pre -pandemic stayover arrival figures.  
4.199.   OECS members have gone above and beyond to bounce back from the negative external 
shocks. Regional efforts and coordination to reaching policy objectives have been commensurate  
with national objectives as well. Notably, the establishment of the OECS Economic Union since 2011 
to deepen regional integration, enhance growth and development prospects for the region is an 
example. Emanating from this cooperation is the adoption of th e OECS Development Strategy (ODS) 
in 2018, with ambitions to take up the challenge of responding to present and future threats to "the 
social and economic development of the OECS and its people " by generating economic growth, 
promoting human and social wel lbeing, and sustainable use of natural endowments.  
4.200.   We note that all six OECS countries are Net Food Importing Developing Countries (NFIDCs) 
with all importing greater than 50% of the food consumed - some reaching 80%. Notwithstanding 
the challenges in impl ementing agricultural policies, and as the sector remains a significant portion 
of ACP countries ' economies, we wish to commend the OECS on their initiatives to tackle food 
security uncertainties. We salute initiatives like the Food and Agriculture Systems  Transformation 
(FAST) strategy completed in May  2022 to promote linkages, create synergies for increased food 
security and food self -reliance and agricultural development.  
4.201.   Since  2016, OECS members have been implementing the TFA with an average 
implementa tion rate of 68%, consistent with their commitments at the WTO. Nevertheless, OECS 
members have reported that challenges in securing additional funding and technical assistance have 
surfaced.  
4.202.   Lastly, the ACP Group congratulates the OECS members for their continuous efforts 
domestically and globally. The ACP Group wishes the OECS every success in implementing initiatives 
that seek to improve its economy and renews its call for WTO Members to support them in seizing 
opportunities, and to overcome the challen ges. 
NIGERIA  
4.203.   Nigeria wishes to thank the  six Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States  – Antigua  
and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Saint  Kitts and Nevis, Saint  Lucia, and  Saint Vincent and the 
Grenadines  - for the successful conduct of its fourth Trade Policy Review. We thank the various 
heads of the delegation led by the Honourable Everly Paul Chet Greene , Minister of Foreign Affairs  
and Trade ; and the discussant H .E. Ms. Nadia  Theodore , the distinguished Ambassador of Canada 
to the WTO for their statements and responses. A very special thanks also goes to the distinguished WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  Ambassador H .E. Colin Murdoch and his expert team including Mr  Joel Richards for their excellent 
work at the WTO.  
4.204.   Permit me to commend both OECS States and WTO Secretariat for the various 
comprehensive reports which reflects an excellent overview of the OECS trade and economic policies 
that includes an overview on all OECS -WTO Members that sought fiscal consolidation during the 
review per iod aimed at achieving primary surpluses in their central government accounts. This fourth 
Trade Policy Review Exercise remains testimony of the regions ' efforts in the compliance with its 
WTO commitments through implementation of its obligations under its  trade agreements at the WTO 
and other trade partners.  
4.205.   We also note that with a combined GDP USD  6.6 billion  in 2021 and an impressive per  capita 
GDP when compared to many developing countries ranging from USD  8,000 to USD  20,000, the 
OECS services sector in particular tourism, is a major contributor to both GDP and employment in 
the region.  
4.206.   It is worthy of note that the various reform measures undertaken by the OECS such as 
replacing some taxes, increasing the rates and coverage of others, trimming expend iture witnessed 
some considerable success when its real GDP increased steadily between 2013 to 2019. However, 
like many countries in the world, the OECS also experienced significant economic shocks due to the 
effects of the pandemic after 2019, resulting i n real GDP contractions of up  to 17%. This was 
primarily caused by a significant decline in tourist arrivals which shows the importance of the tourism 
sector in the region.  
4.207.   We commend the OECS Governments for their swift action in providing a COVID -19 stim ulus 
package and other necessary policies undertaken in order to mitigate the effects of the pandemic.  
4.208.   We applaud the OECS -WTO Members for maintaining a common monetary and exchange 
rate policy aimed at maintaining monetary stability through a fixed excha nge rate regime. We 
commend The OECS as part of CARICOM and through its establishment of the CARICOM single 
market economy (the CSME) that operates to remove all barriers to the free movement of factors 
of production despite the consolidation of the CSME b eing still a work in progress. We believe this is 
worthy of emulation. As strong advocates of regional integration ourselves at the ACFTA, we believe 
that deeper regional economic integration shall lead to a more efficient economy.  
4.209.   Regarding the OECS -WTO Members participation at the WTO, we would like to highlight the 
valuable contribution of the OECS in the ongoing Dispute Settlement Reform discussions. We believe 
that the restoration of the WTO two -tier Dispute Settlement System is key in safeguarding Members 
rights. The OECS has also been very active in negotiations at key WTO committees negotiating the 
Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, Investment Facilitation , and the E -Commerce work programme. 
The OECS has also contributed to WTO negotiations through their various memberships at the ACP, 
G-90, Small Vulnerable Economies -NAMA, G -33.  
4.210.   We definitely take note of the natural disaster which the region has suffered and we also 
fully support that as members of the SVEs group, there is need for WTO neg otiations to take into 
account the consequences of preference erosion for the region. We also commend the OECS on their 
ratification of the TFA during the period under review and we are confident that they are committed 
to fulfilling their obligations unde r the agreement while addressing the capacity constraints.  
4.211.   In conclusion, we congratulate the entire delegation of OECS, my delegation will continue 
working closely with the Geneva based delegates of the OECS in many committees of shared 
interests. We wish  them a successful fourth  Trade Policy Review Exercise.  
BAHAMAS ON BEHALF OF THE CARICOM GROUP  
4.212.   I am pleased to deliver this statement on behalf of the CARICOM Group on the occasion of 
the fourth  Trade Policy Review of the OECS -WTO Member States.  
4.213.   We welcome  the high -level delegation from the OECS headed by  the Honourable Everly Paul 
Chet Greene , Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Antigua  and Barbuda and Chair of OECS Council WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  of Ministers of Trade ; Honourable Keisal  Peters Minister of Foreign Affairs an d Trade of S aint Vincent 
and the Grenadines . 
4.214.   We applaud the OECS for their very comprehensive Report which acutely highlights the 
challenges of small island developing states, particularly in the wake of the COVID -19 pandemic and 
amidst the global battle t o abate the impact of climate change. We also applaud the efforts of the 
WTO Secretariat for its comprehensive Report which also demonstrates an appreciation for the 
challenges faced by SIDS members in a post -COVID -19 environment and we appreciate the 
mean ingful communication from the discussant, Ambassador Theodore of Canada. Coming from The 
Bahamas, we agree that spice is indeed nice and we recognize the excellent contributions made by 
the OECS Mission in Geneva at the WTO and in CARICOM ably led by Ambas sador Colin  Murdoch.  
4.215.   The structure of the OECS grouping is a very unique one with many opportunities, but also 
fraught with many challenges which require constant monitoring and adaptive management. Like 
many SIDS, the region is exposed to climactic disast ers. As outlined in the OECS Report 
WT/TPR/G/437, the impact of hurricane Maria on Dominica in 2016 resulted in damages estimated 
at 22 6% of that island 's 2016 GDP. With OECS 2019 tourism receipts accounting for an average 
of 57% of all exports, climactic disasters continue to accentuate the economic challenges faced by 
the OECS as with all SIDS.  
4.216.   Recognizing the changing social, environmental and economic landscape, we applaud OECS 
members for taking the pragmatic step of adopting a comprehensive developmen t strategy spanning 
all six countries in its membership. More importantly, we are pleased to hear that the regional 
development strategy respects the level of development of each member country and the 
comparative and competitive advantages of each jurisdi ction to build greater regional resilience to 
the hazards each country and the region as a whole face.  
4.217.   On the tourism front, we are pleased to see the OECS development strategy includes steps 
to actively develop a more sustainable product by placing greate r reliance on implementing 
marketing and decision -making driven by market data. We also note and applaud the plan to utilize 
World  Bank funding during the 2023 -24 cycle to update the OECS Common Tourism Policy in order 
to place greater emphasis on the Blue  Economy and increase competitiveness.  
4.218.   Paying careful attention to the data that some OECS countries import more than 80 % of the 
food which they consume, we commend the OECS on the launch of its Food and Agriculture Systems 
Transformation (FAST) strategy t o improve food security, food self -reliance and agricultural 
development.  
4.219.   Amidst plans for broad based growth, we applaud the OECS for their efforts to address the 
contraction in manufacturing as a share of GDP which fell from 4.2 % in 2015 to 3.7 % by 2021 and 
for recognizing the opportunity to exploit niche markets in manufacturing, such as the global 
innovation for local market industries in areas such as chemicals and machinery.  
4.220.   Finally, and in line with the purpose of today 's meetings, we note the commitment by the 
OECS to a "fair, equitable, open, transparent, inclusive and rules -based multilateral trading system ". 
Most importantly, we support the view of the OECS that such a system must meet the needs of all 
countries, no matter the stage of d evelopment. The efforts to swiftly conclude implementation across 
the OECS member States of the Common Customs Tariff (CCT) and the Trade Facilitation Agreement 
is indicative of this commitment.  
4.221.   We wish the OECS delegation a wonderful stay here in Geneva and look forward to its book 
launch today entitled "Enabling Sustainable Trade in the OECS ". We convey best wishes for a 
successful Review.  
GUYANA1 
4.222.   Thank you, Chair, H.E.  Mr Saqer Abdullah Almoqb el; Honourable Everly Paul Chet Greene, 
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Antigua  and Barbuda, and Chair  of the  OECS Council of 
Ministers of Trade ; Honourable Keisal Peters, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of 
 
1 Statement delivered during the second day of the meeting.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  Saint Vincent  and the Grenadines ; Dr Didacus  Jules, Director General of the OECS Commission ; 
Ambassador Colin  Murdoch ; members of the delegation . I join others in extending a warm Guyanese 
Caribbean welcome to you.  
4.223.   Chair, o ur commendation to you on the conduct of this session thus far, an d our appreciation 
equally to Ambassador Nadia  Theodore of Canada, the discussant for setting the tone. We also 
extend our thanks to the Governments of Antigua  and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, 
Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint  Lucia, and S aint Vincent  and the Grenadines and the Secretariat 's Trade 
Policies Review  Division, for the comprehensive reports.  
4.224.   As fellow small  island developing states (SIDS) we are cognizant of the OECS -WTO Member 
States ' extreme vulnerability to natural disasters, the vagaries of clim ate change and exogenous 
shocks, we praise our sister CARICOM States in the progress that they have made thus far. In this 
respect Guyana associates itself with the statements by the ACP and CARICOM Groups.  
4.225.   We ae aware of the importance of the tourism sec tor to the economies of the OECS Members 
and note the impact that COVID -19 has had on it. Therefore, we are heartened to acknowledge the 
initiatives and strategies being implemented, as well as the incremental progress made towards 
recovery.  
4.226.   The OECS State s are Net Food Importing Developing Countries (NFIDCs), with their food 
import bill being greater than 50% of the food consumed and we commend initiatives such as Food 
and Agriculture Systems Transformation (FAST) strategy completed in May  2022, to tackle food 
security uncertainties. Similarly, the CARICOM Agri -Food Systems Strategy, which is being 
spearheaded by Guyana, aims to reduce the Region 's food import bill by 25% by 2025 and to create 
synergies for increased food security and food self -reliance and  agricultural development.  
4.227.   In closing, Guyana would like to express our best wishes to the OECS -WTO Member States 
for a successful conclusion of their fourth Trade Policy Review, as they continue to make their 
valuable contributions to the multilateral tr ading system amidst the challenges they face. In this 
regard, it is hoped that the necessary support and assistance would be accorded to the States as 
they seek to honour their commitments under the Trade Facilitation Agreement, and the other WTO 
Agreement s. 
  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE S OF THE OECS -WTO MEMBERS  AND ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS  
OECS -WTO MEMBERS  (Honourable Keisal Peters)  
5.1.  Ambassador Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel, Chair of the Trade Policy Review Body (TPRB) ; 
H.E. Ambassador Nadia  Theodore, Ambassador of Canada to the WTO and discussant ; 
H.E. Andrea  St. Bernard, Head of Grenada's delegation ; Mr Ricky  Jn Baptiste, Head of Saint  Lucia's 
delegation ; Dr Didacus  Jules, Director -General of the OECS Commission ; Ms Jacqueline  Emmanuel, 
Director of Economic Affairs and Regional Integration,  OECS  Commission ; Ambassador 
H.E. Colin Murdoch, OECS Ambassador in Geneva ; Ambassador Daven  Joseph of 
Antigua  and Barbuda ; other Representatives of OECS  member States and the OECS Commission ; 
distinguished  Ambassadors and delegates.  
5.2.  I cannot emphasize enough how extremely pleased we are with the success of this the 
fourth  Trade Policy Review for WTO Members of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States 
(OECS). Mr  Chair, we are particularly delighted with  your efficient work.  
5.3.  We saw it fitting to participate in this review at a very high level because of the priority that 
we assign to this exercise. We also managed to use our brief time in Geneva as productively as 
possible and were fortunate to meet with many Members on the margins of our Review. We are 
encouraged and  we will be leaving Geneva with renewed optimism in our collective ability as 
WTO Members to shaping an even more durable and relevant multilateral trading system.  
5.4.  H.E. Nadia  Theodore, Ambassador of Canada to the WTO, our friend, our discussant, we are 
extremely grateful for the tremendous amount of Caribbean spices that you used to flavour your 
statement. Canada has been a long -standing friend of the OECS. Therefore, when you were 
suggested by the Secretariat as one of the possible discussants, we did not  hesitate in requesting 
you specifically. Our friendship with Canada was further cemented when the Honourable 
Justin  Trudeau met with our Heads of Government in the Bahamas in February. Now this relationship 
has been given an additional stamp of approval w ith your role in our Review this week.  
5.5.  Ambassador Theodore, you demonstrated a keen awareness of the context and landscape in 
which the OECS operates. Thank you for further highlighting the challenges confronting the OECS 
since our last Review, including our susceptibility to natural disasters and climatic events; our 
persistent vulnerability to exogenous shocks, such as geopolitical turmoil as is the case with the 
situation in Ukraine; as well as our structural constraints, such as narrow economic corrido rs as 
keenly demonstrated by our heavy reliance on the tourism sector.  
5.6.  You hit the nail on the proverbial head in highlighting that the OECS member States place a 
high value on an equitable, open, transparent, inclusive and rules -based trading system. A s ystem 
which is fully operationalized, including with respect to discharging its dispute settlement functions, 
helps to ensure that there are guardrails in place to preserve the interests of all Members, but 
especially the smallest and most vulnerable.  
5.7.  In short order, I anticipate that the OECS will be reaching out to the Government of Canada to 
discuss a trade to bring you back home.  
5.8.  We also want to thank Members for their very constructive statements during our TPR  Exercise. 
Several themes were common th roughout most of the statements. First, a recognition of the 
challenges facing OECS -WTO Members as small vulnerable economies and small island developing 
states. Second, positive encouragements to improve our transparency and notifications. Third, 
encourag ements for the OECS to join some Joint Initiatives. Fourth, the active engagement and 
pragmatism of the OECS in Geneva.  
5.9.  Small vulnerable economies and small island developing states face many of the same 
challenges. These include the persistent threat of natural disasters, the disproportionate impact of 
climate change, narrow production structures and vulnerability to external shocks just to name a 
few. In the space of a few hours, the passage of a hurricane can undo decades of human 
development and econom ic growth and development in a small island developing state.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  5.10.   As our friend from Mauritius indicated, every time OECS members and other small island 
developing states call for policy space and Special and Differential Treatment, other WTO Members 
should l isten to us and understand our position and accede to our requests. These requests are not 
flippant, and typically go to the core of our lived realities.  
5.11.   This also brings me to an important point which I omitted on Wednesday. Some 
OECS  countries are class ified as high -income by international financial institutions such as the 
World  Bank. Even in the WTO, this classification has prevented some OECS members from 
benefitting from certain types of technical assistance and capacity building under agreements suc h 
as the Trade Facilitation Agreement. Allow me to place on record that high -income, especially for 
very small countries, is not a true measure of the development of a country. This is especially the 
case when one considers high -income in the context of th e importunate vulnerabilities which we 
face.  
5.12.   Regarding notifications and transparency, we have taken note of Members' comments. As we 
indicated, we are not willfully failing to notify, but we do have real human and financial constraints. 
As we move to enh ance our trade policy, including trade policy coordination within the OECS, we 
intend to address this issue head -on, including with the support of the technical assistance and 
capacity building available within the WTO.  
5.13.   On the various calls for the OECS t o co-sign several initiatives, we have taken note. Of course, 
we are not opposed in principle to many of the initiatives underway. However, there are limits to 
our ability to participate fully given our resource constraints here in Geneva.  
5.14.   With respect to the OECS engagement in Geneva, this is something that will continue, and 
we intend to build on this as we have plans to strengthen our work at the WTO.  
5.15.   As I close, let me once again that you Chair for your effective stewardship of this pro cess. We 
are immensely grateful to the dedicated and efficient work of the staff of the Trade Policies Review 
Division, particularly those with responsibility for the Americas Region, ably led by Mr  Angelo  Silvy 
and his team. You did great work, and you we re also very patient and flexible in your engagements 
with us. We also commend the work of the interpreters, translators, and editors to this process.  
5.16.   The staff of the OECS Commission and our officials in member States also did an incredible 
job in very t rying circumstances.  
5.17.   The OECS has taken note of all the statements made. We thank WTO Members for their 
interest in our work and their support during this week. We look forward to continuing our work with 
you to strengthen the WTO, including at the next M inisterial Conference.  
SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES  (Honourable Keisal Peters)  
5.18.   I take this opportunity to express our appreciation to the staff of the WTO Trade Polic ies 
Review  Division and the OECS Commission for their hard work and support in comple ting our Trade 
Policy Report. Thanks to H.  E. Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel, Chair of the Trade Policy Review Body and 
H. E. Nadia  Theodore, Ambassador of Canada to the WTO and discussant. I also thank the Member 
States who reviewed our Trade Policy Report and s ubmitted questions.  
5.19.   The fourth OECS Trade Policy Review has provided an opportunity for S aint Vincent  and 
the Grenadines to examine its trade policies and practices. This offers important transparency 
dividends to the whole Membership of the WTO.  
5.20.   Saint Vincent  and the Grenadines as a small vulnerable economy and small island developing 
State (SID) faced many challenges during the reporting period including:  
• A series of severe natural disasters, from 2010 onwards, which have cumulatively caused 
loss and damage in excess of XCD 700 million ; 
• the negative socio -economic impact caused by the COVID -19 pandemic ; 
• 32 explosive eruptions of the La  Soufrière volcano res ulting in the disruption of lives and  
Livelihoods ; WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  • the grave and gathering menace of climate change and its associated costs, which directly 
threaten growth and development prospects;  
• High global fuel prices and its "knock -on" effects;  
• Geo-political turmoi l such as the Russia n Federation -Ukraine conflict, which exacerbated the 
underlying global economic downturn, has had significant inflationary impact.  
5.21.   In an effort to combat these challenges, Saint  Vincent  and the Grenadines under its 
Post-Disaster Recover y Needs Assessment, has quantified recovery needs and formulated a realistic 
recovery framework based on national priorities and capacities. These are built around three broad 
and achievable objectives aimed at enhancing the country's economic development agenda in an 
inclusive and comprehensive manner. These are achievable by:  
• ensuring the sustainability of the productive value chains that incorporate new and better 
technologies;  
• the development of effective and efficient governance mechanisms, human capa cities and 
support services; an d  
• the strengthening of the financial sector.  
5.22.   Since the last Trade Policy Review in 2014, Saint  Vincent  and the Grenadines has sought to 
build on the development path espoused in the National Economic and Social Development P lan 
(NESDP) 2013 -2025. This development path includes Re -engineering Economic Growth. Some of 
the development initiatives include:  
• The completion and operation of the Argyle International Airport (AIA) in 2017;  
• an aggressive thrust for alternative energy through geothermal exploration and other green 
energy sources;  
• a focused approach at defining and integrating our Blue Economy into national development 
strategies;  
• the Implementation of the Information Communication Technology (ICT) ini tiative under the 
Caribbean Regional Communications Infrastructure Programme;  
• the construction of a Modern Port facility;  
• the development of a National Export Strategy which is currently under review; and  
• the development of an Import Export Guide to facilitate trade in goods.  
5.23.   In addition, Saint  Vincent  and the Grenadines looks favourably on its regional integration 
processes with the Organi sation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the Caribbean Community 
(CARICOM). These are the bed -rock platforms from which we seek to competitively engage and 
further integrate into the global economy.  
5.24.   Saint Vincent  and the Grenadines int ends to continue to be a constructive player in the WTO. 
As we look towards the 13th Ministerial  Conference (MC13), we are anticipating meaningful 
engagement and progress in a number of areas, such as WTO Reform, including the reform of the 
Dispute Settlem ent System; fisheries subsidies; agriculture , and e -commerce among others. Having 
facilitated the thematic session on e-commerce, I am pleased to see that the work program me has 
been reinvigorated.  
5.25.   We also believe that there is scope to better integrate s mall economies into the global 
economy, and we believe that this can be meaningfully achieved by further institutionalizing 
development as a core principle in the WTO.  
5.26.   To offer some brief thoughts on some of these priority areas for MC13, let me reiterate  our 
commitment to reforms to improve the functioning of the WTO. We note that a number of proposals 
are emerging. Nonetheless, this work must remain open, inclusive, transparent , and friendly to the 
capacity constraints of small delegations.  
5.27.   On Dispute S ettlement Reform, we continue to support the two -tiered system. This is 
fundamental for due process and natural justice. Even as we participate actively in the informal 
dispute settlement reform conversations through the OECS, we call for the full restorat ion of the 
proper functioning of the system as soon as possible and certainly no later than 2024.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  5.28.   In Fisheries Subsidies, we call for Members to remain faithful to the mandate for appropriate 
and effective Special and Differential Treatment (SDT). The pro posed de minimis threshold, or small 
players exemption, should be seen as appropriate and effective SDT. If we depart from the mandate, 
I fear that we will be led down a path of unrighteousness.  
5.29.   On Agriculture, we continue to prioritize domestic support, special safeguard mechanisms and 
special products. There should also be a meaningful outcome on public stockholding.  
5.30.   In closing it is important to mention that St. Vincent and the Grenadines honors it obligations 
to the multilateral trading system and places a high value on the trade policy review mechanism. 
We would like to reiterate the importance of technical assistance and capacity building for developing 
countries.  
DOMINICA  
5.31.   I deliver this statement on behalf of Honourable Dr  Vince  Henderson, Minist er of Foreign 
Affairs and Trade of Dominica who was not able to be with us this week. Minister Henderson sends 
his apologies.  
5.32.   Dominica feels both privileged and elated to join our fellow OECS member States in the 
exercise of another WTO Trade Policy Revie w. We view this process as the epitome of transparency 
and a cornerstone of the WTO's Transparency Mechanism. It is also an opportunity to share with our 
fellow WTO Member States the efforts which we have made, during the period under review, to 
create a m ore conducive environment for the conduct of trade embracing wholesomely the WTO 
Trade Facilitation Agreement as the catalyst.  
5.33.   We also want to take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the multilateral trading 
system and to play our part in confr onting, in a constructive, positive, result oriented manner, the 
challenges being faced by this august Organization.  
5.34.   This Trade Policy Review is set within the context of a country being ravaged twice by natural 
disasters - Tropical Storm Erika (2015) and  Hurricane Maria (2017)  - which caused loss and damage 
equivalent to over 300% of GDP; the final year under review was spent battling the ravages of the 
COVID -19 which to a large extent set back economic growth prospects, projected by the 
International Mon etary Fund (IMF), of 5.5% for the year 2020. The advancements which are 
reflective, within the content, of our Report, is therefore indicative of a story of triumph over 
adversity and the setting of the foundations for the realization of the first climate resilient country 
in the world . 
5.35.   In the building of resilience, fighting climate change and laying a development path to ensure 
a sustained and purposeful recovery the Government of Dominica has crafted a comprehensive 
National Resilience Development Strate gy (NRDS) characterized  by three major forces: sustainable 
development goals; building the first climate resilient country in the world and people centred 
development. A Climate Resilient Recovery Plan (CRRP)  which creates targets, defines initiatives and 
outlines resources required to implement resilience measures was also crafted. Finally, a Disaster 
Resilience Strategy (DRS) was realized wh ich will guide individuals, communities, organizations and 
the State to adapt and recover from disasters without com promising long term prospects. These 
documents present a vivid framework for Dominica to 2030.  
5.36.   Dominica continues to recognize its obligation to strive to ensure a harmonized trade policy 
within the regional construct – CARICOM and the OECS; we are aggres sively implementing a National 
CARICOM Single Market and Economy Work Programme and work continues in the area of deepening 
integration within the OECS Economic Union. Our united front, in the pursuit of this Trade Policy 
Review, is testament to our thrust  towards harmony.   
5.37.   Dominica has also received the approval of our Cabinet for our National Trade Policy. This 
document will serve as the yardstick by which we pursue our trade related activities locally, 
regionally , and internationally.  Our vision is to ac hieve g lobally competitive exports driving a more 
balanced, diversified, sustainable and resilient economy. The mission is to establish a market -driven, 
development -led, sustainable trade policy capable of catalysing expanded economic growth, reduce 
poverty , and attain improved living standards for all Dominicans. The ultimate goal being to  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  significantly improve Dominica's external trade performance and its balance of trade position and to 
improve the ease, efficiency, and confidence of the country's domestic trading environment. In this 
National Trade Policy , we have earmarked the following sectors for development:  
• The Creative (Orange) Economy;  
• The Green Economy;  
• The Blue Economy;  
• The Circular Economy; and  
• The Digital Economy.  
5.38.   We are currently working on an implementation plan to bring to life the contents of the pages, 
of this, Dominica's National Trade Policy.  
5.39.   Dominica continues, through its National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC), to implement 
our Trade Facilitation Road Map; w e are in pursuit of realizing 48 activities which will enable the full 
implementation of the TFA on our municipal plane. Currently, we have implemented more than 90% 
of our Trade Facilitation Measures. We want to take the opportunity to thank UNCTAD for it s 
continued assistance in enabling our trade facilitation goals.  
5.40.   Fellow Members, i n 2015, the Dominica Customs Division, with assistance from the 
International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank Group, worked on a project to facilitate 
national co nnectivity of key border control agencies. An IFC Conversion Tool was developed and 
implemented, which allowed the agencies access to the Automated System for Customs Data 
(ASYCUDA) from their offices and manage their import trade data requirements on the system. The 
NTFC however identified a number of critical aspects which are still pending to make the Single 
Window fully operational. It is premised on the same that we applied for and received support from 
the Investment Climate Reform Facility to pursue a consultancy geared as establishing our readiness 
for the implementation of a Single Window in Dominica. The consultancy is complete and the Final 
Report has identified the way forward. Dominica is presently pursuing the recruitment of a Manager 
to assist  in the bridging of the implementation gaps identified in the consultancy and bring the Single 
Window to life in Dominica.  
5.41.   Dominica continues to play an active role in the discussions geared towards the birth of a 
future Investment Facilitation for Develo pment (IFD) Agreement. Dominica visualizes benefits from 
participating in this Joint Initiative to revolve around the promotion of greater transparency of 
regulations concerning investment; building constructive relationships between investors and 
relevant  authorities; and the establishment of amicable consultation/mediation mechanisms to avert 
investment disputes from escalating. Dominica recogni zes the importance of a Self -Needs 
Assessment to explore the readiness for the negotiation and implementation of  an Investment 
Facilitation Agreement; Dominica is currently poised to benefit from a Self -Assessment with the 
support of the OECS Commission which has hired a Consultant to facilitate this activity.  
5.42.   On the environmental front, the Government of Dominica b elieves strongly in clean energy 
transitions; this is of pertinence to our future trajectory. Our Government recognizes that energy 
services are key to unlocking the potential for more sustainable environmental, social and economic 
development in Dominica.  A National Energy Policy has been developed and is intended to address 
the needs of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Dominica; help combat increasing energy costs; 
and reduce Dominica's greenhouse gas emissions in line with its aspirations the "Nature Island of 
the Caribbean" and "the First Climate Resilient Country in the World". The National Energy Policy 
represents the desire of the Dominican people to improve the quality of life and living standards on 
Island for this generation and future ones; thi s Policy was approved in January  2021.  
5.43.   Members, our National Energy Policy is forward thinking and establishes the framework for 
an energy transition which will deliver national development outcomes for the environment, society 
and the economy of Dominica and aligns with Government's stated target of 100% Renewable 
Energy by  2030. The transition to a more affordable, resilient and low -carbon energy system will 
require phasing out fossil fuels in power generation and transport. Dominica's long -term goal, in this 
Sector, is to explore and utilize renewable and alternative energy potential and work continues on a 
Geothermal Development Project, in the Roseau Valley, with the construction of two additional wells 
in Laudat; with financial and technical s upport from the World  Bank. The Government has also WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  conducted five  procurements associated with the drilling of these wells valued at over 
XCD 35.1 million. This includes the civil works for access roads and well pads.  
5.44.   On the services front we continue to enhance our sites and experiences to ensure that 
Dominica becomes a premier tourist destination; we have also been investing in the building of 
hotels to ensure sufficient, luxury accommodation for stay over tourist. We also continue to support 
our non -established service sectors through our Small Business Support Unit both by means of 
technical and financial support. The Government also works collaboratively with our professional 
service providers to enhance their ability to deliver a satisfactory service and to take advantage of 
the market opportunities provided within the numerous trade arrangements negotiated for their 
benefit.  
5.45.   In brief, Dominica's economic outlook, in the short term, would comprise the a cceleration in 
the implementation of the Public Su pport Investment Programmes (PSIP) largely financed by 
proceeds from the Citizenship by Investment (CBI)  Programme; the construction of the international 
airport; and private sector initiatives inclusive of the building luxury hotels to support the tourism  
sector.  
5.46.   In conclusion, I want to thank the WTO Secretariat for the opportunity to highlight our 
development -oriented activities undertaken during the period of review; the technical assistance 
and support given by the staff of the WTO is invaluable. I thank you on behalf of the Government 
and people of the Commonwealth of Dominica. We also want to thank the OECS Commission and its 
Mission in Geneva for the support given throughout this exercise. Dominica will continue to ensure 
that its trade -oriented deve lopment goals will be guided by the guidelines, principles , and rules of 
the WTO. The outcome of this review, I am sure, will establish our vigilance in this effort.  
5.47.   Lastly, I want to thank the Members who have submitted questions. This illustrates your 
interest in what we are pursuing. We were happy to respond to your queries . 
GRENADA  (H.E. Andrea St. Bernard)  
5.48.   It is a distinct pleasure for me to be here today to express my gratitude on behalf of the 
Government of Grenada as we conclude this fourth Trade P olicy Review of the OECS. I bring 
greetings on behalf of our Minister for Trade, Hon ourable Joseph  Andall, Minister for Foreign Affairs, 
Trade and Export Development.  
5.49.   This last two days of the review have been very successful and indeed Grenada is pleased 
with the manner in which the Chair and the discussant have conducted the process. Grenada has 
learnt from this process and has taken on board the feedback and comments  from Members. We 
also express thanks to the delegations who took the floor during the meeting and those who 
submitted written questions in advance. It is evident that this Trade Policy Review Mechanism is 
open and transparent and means well for the future  of this multilateral trading system.  
5.50.   Turning briefly to the Secretariat and our country reports, it is evident that Grenada has made 
tremendous progress since our third Trade Policy Review held in 2014. Some of the main takeaways 
under the period of revie w as highlighted are as follows:  
(a) Implementation of a Home -Grown Structural Adjustment program with support from a 
formal Extended Credit Facility arrangement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). 
This has enabled Grenada to strengthen its competitive ness, embark on prudent fiscal 
management and generate higher levels of growth.  
(b) Establishment of COVID -19 Economic Support Secretariat (C.E.S.S) - Grenada experienced 
a significant decline during the COVID -19 Pandemic in all sectors of the economy, includi ng 
in the tourism and education sectors which have been significant contributors to our GDP. 
In fact, during the height of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, Grenada experienced a 
significant decline in its GDP. To mitigate this decline, the Government of Gren ada 
established the COVID -19 Economic Support Secretariat to provide financial support to 
MSMEs. Due to our resilient nature, we have managed the reopening of all sectors and are 
now back to pre -pandemic levels of growth. Nonetheless, our experience with t he pandemic WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  has cemented the need to accelerate reforms to boost economic growth and development 
and to build resilience, including with respect to investment facilitation reforms.  
(c) Another highlight for Grenada has been the implementation of our new incent ive regime 
which was a significant move to improve the level of investment opportunities for Grenada. 
It also simplified the process to access available incentives through an automatic application 
for investors who fall within our priority sectors.  
5.51.   During the period under review, Grenada made significant improvements to its legislative 
framework to improve transparency at the border. In the area of Trade Facilitation, Grenada 
submitted its instrument of ratification of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement a nd is working 
assiduously to get technical and financial assistance to implement its Category  C commitments. One 
of the noteworthy achievements is the establishment of our Customs Appeals Commission which is 
now functioning and receiving appeals.  
5.52.   During th e period under review, Grenada enacted Consumer Rights legislation and is in the 
process of establishing the office of consumer rights.  
5.53.   In regard s to exports, Grenada implemented a National Export Strategy 2017 -2021. The aim 
of this export strategy is to i mprove the level of exports and to find new markets for our export 
products and services. The Export Strategy not only focuses on goods but also covers the services 
sector. There are six priority areas which are as follows:  
• agriculture and fisheries;  
• creative industries;  
• maritime and yachting;  
• health and wellness;  
• tourism; and  
• professional services.  
5.54.   We point to our implementation of an MSME Policy in 2019 to help develop this sector. The 
aim of the policy is to stimulate the sustainable development, growth and expansion of viable 
MSMEs; and to create appropriate conditions for the entrepreneurial spirit and culture to flourish in 
urban, sub -urban and non -urban communities throughout Grenada.  
5.55.   In the context of the WTO disciplines on Invest ment Facilitation for Development, Grenada 
joined these negotiations in 2019 and has been very much involved in the process. In fact, yesterday 
Grenada delivered its first face to face statement at the Investment Facilitation for Development 
Open Plenary.  
5.56.   Grenada at this time will like to reaffirm its support to the ongoing negotiations at the WTO 
leading up to MC13 next year and is also committed to the WTO Reform.  
5.57.   Moving to concerns raised by Members, we have taken note of the need to improve our WTO 
notifications and we will work jointly with our OECS colleagues to address this matter. In the area 
of trade facilitation, we have highlighted previously about our achievements, however, we will 
continue to approach regional and international donors f or techni cal and financial assistance.  
5.58.   Finally, Grenada expresses thanks once again for this Trade Policy Review and to our fellow 
colleagues from the OECS. We thank Minister Greene of Antigua and Barbuda for delivering the Joint 
opening statement on behalf of the OECS . We have stated the process of reviewing the questions 
posed by Members and we will submit our written responses to the Trade Polic ies Review Division  
within the stipulated timeline.  
SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS  (H.E. Steven Golstein)  
5.59.   I deliver this statemen t on behalf of the Honourable Denzil Douglas, Minister of Foreign Affairs 
and Trade of S aint Kitts and Nevis who could not be here with us. I also extend apologies on his 
behalf, for his absence.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  5.60.   Saint Kitts and Nevis is pleased to join with its OECS colleagues to participate in its fourth 
Trade Policy Review by the World Trade Organization (WTO). I take this time therefore to thank the 
OECS Commission for its meticulous work in preparing the reports and getting u s to this stage. We 
would also like to acknowledge the WTO Secretariat, including the TPR Division and all involved for 
their dedicated work over the past months. Indeed, we can all truly say that despite the challenges 
posed by the COVID -19 pandemic we ha ve truly come a long way.  
5.61.   As a small island developing state, we consider the Trade Policy Review Mechanism (TPRM) 
as one of the is one of the most important instruments in the discharge of the WTO's monitoring 
function.  
5.62.   The Trade Policy Review Mechanism h as worked very effectively in ensuring transparency of 
trade policies and practices of WTO Members. Further it has contributed to maintaining and 
strengthening the multilateral trading system (MLTS). In that regard, S aint Kitts and Nevis remains 
committed to the process and on this occasion feels the need to reiterate the importance of 
transparency in strengthening the WTO functions.  
5.63.   It is no secret that the multilateral trading system has faced unprecedented challenges in the 
past few years. Nonetheless, S aint Kitts and Nevis, as with its colleague OECS Members, remains 
committed to the centrality of the WTO for an integrated, rules -based global trading system. We 
remain supportive of all efforts that have been made to safeguard and strengthen the WTO for 
promoting development and inclusivity.  
5.64.   Saint Kitts and Nevis values the interest of the Membership in the Review, and thank them 
for the questions posed which in our view highlight the value of this process. We have already 
registered our responses and than k the Membership for its robust engagement over the past two 
days.  
5.65.   The road to get to this stage has been arduous and long. Indeed, while this could be said by 
other Members, as a small island developing state characterized by vulnerabilities such as limit ed 
capital, and human resources, we remain exposed and experience tumultuous times.  
5.66.   Further, the challenges to us a SIDS that arise from the impacts of climate change and natural 
disasters are particularly acute within the context of the inherent character istics that typify us.  
5.67.   Yet, we have made tremendous strides in our trade policy implementation, intent on further 
catalysing trade as an engine of growth. Of course, we are mindful of ridding ourselves of the 
challenges associated with poverty, unemploymen t, and income inequality.  
5.68.   In the area of Trade Facilitation, we boast a very active National Trade Facilitation Committee 
(NTFC) focused on the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Our roadmap for 
trade facilitation considers all the r elevant legislative and institutional reforms to bolster trade 
facilitation efforts.  
5.69.   We are forging ahead to institute a transformed cross border clearance eco -system through 
efficient, transparent, risk based, coordinated, digital, seamless , and technolog y-driven procedures. 
Indeed, our efforts are not void of challenges as we continue to encounter difficulties in accessing 
funding based on donor criteria and our classification as a middle -income country.  
5.70.   Meanwhile, however, we understand that the trade fa cilitative measures initiated by the 
Government could be instrumental in a drastically reducing time and cost of border and documentary 
compliances for exports and imports among other noteworthy benefits. So, we prod along in 
anticipation of enhanced and s trategic donor support and technical assistance.  
5.71.   It must be emphasized, that trade is a vital aspect of S aint Kitts and Nevis' development 
strategy and an enabler of its economic competitiveness.  
5.72.   Our services sector continues to be the dominant sector in the economy accounting for 80% 
of GDP. We will seek to develop this sector that has tremendous potential, particularly in the area 
of professional services.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  5.73.   The Federation is endowed with several professional service providers in areas such as 
engineering, quantity surveying, architecture, educational service providers, cultural service, ICT , 
and management services.  
5.74.   Of course, we cannot discuss trade policy outside the context of the COVID -19 pandemic and 
its impact on global supply chain and other related factors.  
5.75.   Our MSME's were the hardest hit by the recent pandemic and our manufacturing sector 
suffered a tremendous blow. This sector continues to be a major contributor to the socio -economic 
development of the Federation. It provides substantial export earnings and employment and while 
affected by the pandemic showed much resilience and rebounded in quick time.  
5.76.   In recent times the availability of a supportive mechanism for businesses, including 
manufacturing entities, has been brought into sharp focus, especially after the advent of the 
COVID -19 pandemic. To this end, the sector will be guided by the revised National Manufacturing 
Strategy, which will cover the period 2022 to 2027. This National Ma nufacturing Strategy identifies 
solutions and recommendations that will continue to make the Manufacturing Sector of the 
Federation competitive, and productive and a viable generator of employment for the citizens and 
residents of S aint Kitts and Nevis.  
5.77.   We continue to strive and accelerate our attempts to reduce our food import bill by 25% 
in 2025. It was just less that one week ago when we hosted one of the largest National Agriculture 
Fair on S aint Kitts and Nevis  which provided us with the impetus that w e can indeed make 
agriculture and food security high and prominent features on our agenda for economic 
transformation.  
5.78.   We continue to support the overarching goals of the multilateral trading system and we 
anticipate the acceleration of engagements on e -commerce, and investment facilitation among other 
critical subjects that are of interest to us as we play our part in strengthening, protecting and, 
preserving the system.  
5.79.   Today, international trade is a significant part of the economy of S aint Kitts and Nevis and it 
is inextricably embedded as a priority area in the overall economic policy framework.  
5.80.   We are confident, as we move along this trajectory, that S aint Kitts and Nevis, along with the 
OECS membership, will play an increasingly important role in global trade in the years to come. We 
commit to addressing our shortcomings and some of these have been highlighted in some of the 
questions we received.  
5.81.   Finally, I say many thanks to the Members once again for this opportunity and for your special 
interes t taken in St. Kitts and Nevis' Trade Policy.  
SAINT LUCIA  (H.E. Ricky Jn Baptiste)  
5.82.   Saint Lucia wishes to first, align itself with the statement delivered by Hon ourable  Minister 
Peters  on behalf of the WTO Members of the Organi sation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).  
5.83.   We would also like to express our gratitude for the warm welcome we received on Wednesday. 
My delegation is especially encouraged by the collective interest, and importan tly, with the manner 
in which this fourth OECS Trade Policy Review exercise was conducted. The spirit of transparency 
was indeed present. Saint Lucia sees this as a productive platform and appreciates the many 
questions, constructive feedback, and advise t hat were shared with us during the first session.  
5.84.   Saint Lucia is also gratified by the Membership's widespread acknowledgement of our 
remarkable resilience in the face of truly unprecedented challenges. We also thank Members for 
recognizing the progress we  have made in our fiscal consolidation so as to create the necessary 
policy space to strengthen and propel our economic recovery.  
5.85.   We would like to thank Members for their advance written questions. We will certainly 
endeavour to submit the few pending resp onses within the shortest possible timeframe. My WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  delegation also looks forward to providing clarification on any other trade related policies, measures , 
and practices of interest to the Membership.  
5.86.   In reflecting on some of the key points contained in the w ritten submissions, permit me to 
inform that we are heartened by Members' keen interest in our foreign direct investment regime, 
including the functions and operations of our investment promotion agency. We assure you that we 
offer fair, transparent , and a ttractive incentive packages to both foreign and domestic investors.  
5.87.   With respect to some of the questions related to our import and export policy measures, we 
recognize that there is still room to engage in further efforts to reduce import procedures that  may 
prove burdensome or costly. We continue to work towards improving our legal and administrative 
environment in order to unlock the business potential and to increase the competitiveness of our 
economy. More specifically, we are working assiduously towa rds updating our customs and trade 
facilitation architecture which includes updating of our HS nomenclature to the 2022 edition, 
harmonizing of our incentives regimes, and streamlining of our licensing regime.  
5.88.   We have taken special note of Members concerns  over our technical regulations and standards 
practices. We are happy to report on the establishment of improved standards mechanism and the 
recently commissioned testing facilities – we do hope, that we have provided the clarity that was 
sought by some Me mbers . 
5.89.   As it relates to trade facilitation, we have taken note of the commendations received for our 
ratification of the Agreement. Saint Lucia draws inspiration from the experiences of the Members of 
our OECS grouping that have registered higher rates of implementation and looks forward to 
emulating their success. Towards this end, Saint  Lucia takes this opportunity to solicit the support 
of Members and the donor community as we seek to mobilize the necessary technical assistance and 
resources to increase our implementation rate.  
5.90.   With respect to our notification obligations, we acknowledge that there has been some lapses 
and deficiencies, particularly with respect to agriculture and sanitary and phytosanitary measures. 
This is by no means reflective of the level of our commitment to the WTO and its covered 
agreements. We therefore wish to thank Members for their encouragement as we look forward to 
taking greater advantage of the technical assistance and capacity building support available within 
the Secretar iat to address our outstanding notification obligations. We are also appreciative of those 
who actively advocate for the simplification of notification templates.  
5.91.   Climate adaptation and resilience continues to be a key area of priority and therefore we are  
heartened that the Members have inquired about our environmental sustainability agenda.  
5.92.   As it relates to the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, we are currently conducting an 
assessment of our own national legislation with a view to ensuring that not only  do we ratify the 
Agreement but that we also ensure that its provisions are well enshrined in domestic law.  
5.93.   We are confident that this fourth Trade Policy Review has deepened Members' understanding 
of the trade policies and practices of Saint  Lucia and tha t this review has also given them an 
appreciation of the intentions and strides being made by the Eastern Caribbean States towards 
collectively advancing our trade and economic outlook.  
5.94.   We have heard and are also well advised to use the information from th is review to make the 
necessary reforms that would enhance our appeal as a partner and destination for trade and 
investment.  
5.95.   In closing, Saint  Lucia expresses its sincerest thanks and appreciation to the WTO Secretariat 
for its dedicated work in generating  the reports and in convening this important exercise.  
5.96.   Of course, it would be remiss of me, if I did not say special thanks to our discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador Nadia Theodore from Canada, for her insightful, concise and, most important, her 
contextual assessment of the Trade Policy and Investment regime of the six  OECS -WTO Members. 
Ambassador, not only were you eloquent in delivery but it was particularly pleasing to watch you 
beam with pride as you declared your deeply rooted ancestral herit age in Saint  Lucia, and your 
special connection with the entire Caribbean region. I daresay your dad has earned the right to brag.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  5.97.   Finally, we thank you Chair for presiding over a very productive first day; and for helping us 
to, up to this point, navigate , with unencumbered efficiency.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.98.   Before I begin, Minister Peters has kindly allowed me a minute to acknowledge that 5 May in 
Canada is the National Day of Awareness for Murdered Missing Indigenous Women, Girls and 
Two-Spirited People. Red dresses  are hung various places across the country as a symbol to their 
memory and is the purpose for the red dress pin I have on today.  
5.99.   I do wish to thank the 22  Members – including some that spoke on behalf of large groups – 
that have provided thoughtful and co nstructive comments on the trade policy of the OECS and 
particularly the OECS -WTO Members.  
5.100.   The comprehensive and insightful remarks by the Honourable Minister Greene set the stage 
for what was a fruitful discussion. The comments we've heard, I believe, sho w a great deal of 
awareness and of forward -looking interest in the OECS -WTO Members as small  island developing 
states, as vulnerable economies, as trading partners, as investment – and, yes, travel destinations, 
and indeed as the active and committed Membe rs of our Organization, and the system it underpins 
and the values of fairness and openness it stands for.  
5.101.   I have heard some remarkably consistent threads in and among Wednesday's statements 
by Members. Some notable motifs and keywords that, I think, show a high level of commonality in 
how Members view and understand – in all the meanings of that word – the OECS -WTO Members, 
their circumstances, their roles , and their potential.  
5.102.   Let us go over a few of these keywords we've heard.  
5.103.   First, "challenges" . It is, I think, abundantly clear to the Membership that the OECS -WTO 
Members have recently and even over successive reporting periods, faced the very real and often 
devastating challenges of geography, of climate and indeed climate change, of a global pandemic 
that has turned their renown among discerning travellers into unprecedented economic and trade 
turbulence, and for them of a faraway war that only compounds their fundamental, structural 
concerns regarding food security .  
5.104.   Second , "resilience". We have heard  numerous Members praising the capacity of the 
OECS -WTO Members to stand up to these challenges with assurance and determination, and 
highlighting their creativity in moving beyond, and ahead. We have heard Members highlighting how 
the OECS -WTO Members do not dwell on their circumstances, but become champions of the very 
means to surmount them, and turn them into innovation and opportunities, such as on climate 
change, and on trade diversification.  
5.105.   Third, "constraints". The Members we've heard on Wednesday very much take heed and are 
very much mindful of the institutional -capacity issues affecting the OECS -WTO Members, including 
as regards their limited human resources in the face of multiple, competing and concurrent priorities. 
And Members unders tand how this can create difficulties for the fulfilment of obligations. At the 
same time, Members look forward to comprehensive, up -to-date notifications - and not because they  
are merely interested in the OECS -WTO Members complying, but clearly out of ge nuine interest, and 
out of the genuine belief that transparency promotes predictability, which in turn facilitates and 
promotes trade and investment. Some Members have identified creative, efficient ways to help 
manage the notifications workload, and I enc ourage the OECS -WTO Members to give these due 
consideration. I am glad to hear that the plans underway through strengthened regional coordination 
will also help make progress on this issue.  
5.106.   Fourth , "engagement". Not ones to see these constraints as obstacles, the OECS -WTO 
Members clearly believe in the rules -based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core as 
part of their development strategy, as one answer to their challenges, as one path to resilience. 
What I  have heard from the statemen ts on Wednesday is a clear view that the level of commitment 
and participation by the OECS -WTO Members in our Organization is very much commensurate to 
that belief of theirs in it, and indeed more than commensurate to their small geographic and WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  population size. I know I said this on Wednesday – though I  am not the only one – but the OECS -WTO 
Members indeed punch above their weight.  
5.107.   And to paraphrase a former U.S. President, the OECS -WTO Members clearly ask themselves 
as much what the WTO can do for them as what they can do for the WTO. As Members have noted:  
• we see this in their ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, which as we have heard 
at a Workshop last month helps promote resilience – and there's that word again – in times 
of crisis through coherent and simplified customs border procedures; digitalization; and a 
clear legal framework;  
• we see this in their engagement in the Work Programme on E -Commerce and in the Informal 
Working Group on MSMEs, which accords with the OECS -WTO Members' focus o n 
diversification, growth, and job creation;  
• we have seen this in their active contribution to the MC12 outcome on fisheries subsidies, 
and we continue to see this as we continue that work;  
• we also see this in how the OECS Development Strategy views free t rade and a predictable 
trade framework as part and parcel of economic growth, diversification and sustainability;  
• and overall, we see this in the OECS -WTO Members' steadfast belief in and support of the 
system, as exemplified by their commitment to WTO re form, and to a two -tiered dispute -
settlement system.  
5.108.   To conclude, Mr  Chair, Ministers, Ambassadors, Representatives, colleagues, as this fourth 
Trade Policy Review of the OECS -WTO Members draws to a close, it is clear to me that those Members 
who spoke on Wednesday, and most likely others as well, will be following with great interest the 
ongoing development of the OECS -WTO Members' trade -policy framework.  
5.109.   At the end of this decade, at your fifth Trade Policy Review, I trust that this very body will 
be hear ing about the successful implementation of the OECS Development Strategy; about the 
benefits of the OECS Customs Union; about a tourism sector that will be more vibrant than it has 
ever been; about diversified and innovative businesses and industries; abou t a continued 
commitment to the WTO; about climate resilience; about stronger or newfound trade and investment 
partnerships; about more, good jobs for your people and in particular for your youth; about inclusive, 
sustainable growth; and about the hope tha t yet more will still lie ahead.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.110.   The United  States would like to thank Minister Greene , Minister Peters, Dr  Jules, and 
Excellencies  of the WTO -Members of the O ECS for your dedication and effort in carrying out this 
successful Trade Policy Rev iew. 
5.111.   The United  States also values the guidance of the Chair and the discussant and the hard 
work of the Secretariat in preparing the Report which made this review possible.  
5.112.   The United  States submitted a number of questions and we appreciate the responses  we 
have received, these responses will be helpful to us as we continue our engagement with the Eastern 
Caribbean States here at the WTO. The United  States values its economic relationship with the 
Eastern Caribbean States and we appreciate our work togeth er at the WTO and under the trade and 
investment framework to deepen our trading relationship.  
5.113.   We thank you and your delegations and look forward to continuing to work closely together 
in our collective efforts to create a more valuable and durable multil ateral trading system. The WTO 
Members of the OECS have made clear, you treat challenges as opportunities, and this is evident, 
not just in your words and comments but also in your actions and engagement here at the WTO. 
Congratulations on a successful Tra de Policy Review.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.114.   I would first like to thank OECS -WTO Members for the comprehensive overview presented 
on Wednesday and this morning, of the main developments that occurred in their trade and economic 
policies during the review period. This  review has been useful for better understanding the trade 
policies of OECS -WTO Members.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  5.115.   As already mentioned on day one, the EU is an important trading partner for OECS countries, 
and in the framework of the preferential trade agreement with the CARIFORUM  Group, the EU has 
become the first export destination for goods from OECS countries. The EU is working closely with 
the region via both trade and cooperation tools, and we are implementing our agreement 
successfully. This brings about favourable condition s for exporters and investors from both sides to 
cooperate and expand our economic relationship. However, important implementation challenges 
remain, and we need to work further together to overcome them. Full implementation will be 
particularly important for supporting investment in OECS countries, a key prerequisite for continued 
growth in the region. To this end, we also hope to successfully conclude the second review of the 
CARIFORUM -EU Economic Partnership Agreement.  
5.116.   Another key priority will be to imp rove intra -regional trade flows, notably between OECS 
countries and the EU 's outermost regions, and countries, territories. We will continue our 
trade -related assistance through revamped development cooperation programmes aimed at 
improving administrative capacities and business competitiveness. The EU is also interested in 
continuing to support the implementation of the trade facilitation agreement.  
5.117.   I would like to reiterate that the EU is, like others, impressed by the high resilience that 
OECS countries showed to overcome external shocks such as natural disasters, supply chain 
disruptions, and a reduction in global tourism flows due to the COVID -19 pandemic.  
5.118.   However, the EU trusts that OECS countries will duly take into account the challenges 
highlighted by Members during this review. In particular, we strongly encourage OECS countries to 
progress in terms of notification compliance. While we note the lack of human resources in some 
OECS countries, referred to also this morning, we believe that transparenc y and a full 
implementation of WTO rules are crucial for predictability and economic certainty, thus creating an 
enabling trade and investment climate. The statements by Members on the first day clearly 
underlined this.  
5.119.   In this regard, we take note of the replies provided by Dominica this morning. We however 
noticed that not all our questions have been answered, and we hope to receive the outstanding 
answers soon.  
5.120.   We are also looking forward to our continued cooperation in the WTO, notably in the run -up 
to the MC13 and in particular on WTO Reform, including in order to have a fully and well -functioning 
Dispute Settlement System accessible to all Members by 2024.  
5.121.   On behalf of the EU, I congratulate the OECS Members for concluding this successful Review.  
REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA  
5.122.   The Republic of Moldova would like to take this opportunity to briefly thank the WTO 
Secretariat, the discussant, and the OECS members States for their efforts in preparing and 
conducting this complex Review Exercise.  
5.123.   The Republic of Moldova undergone its TPR last year, and as a small, vulnerable, developing 
economy with similar constrains related to capacity and small delegations, we fully understand how 
much effort has been made by OECS members to complete this transparen cy exercise.  
5.124.   We would also like to express our appreciation for the active participation, valuable, and 
constructive contribution of OECS member States within different WTO working groups, formal and 
informal discussions, and we are looking forward to work ing with your Geneva -based delegates on 
common topics of interest.  
PERÚ  
5.125.   Perú quisiera agradecer a u sted, Sr.  Presidente, a la Secretaría, a los Ministros, y a los 
Representantes Permanentes de los Estados del Caribe Oriental.  
5.126.   Este ha sido un examen basta nte útil, que ha promovido la transparencia y ha permitido 
conocer los enormes esfuerzos que vienen haciendo nuestros socios y amigos del Caribe Oriental WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  para hacer que las normas multilaterales relativas al comercio funcionen y sean beneficiosas para 
sus pueblos. Felicitaciones por esta exitosa revisión de sus políticas comerciales.  
5.127.   Perú y los países del Caribe Oriental compartimos muchas áreas y muchos intereses 
complementariamente, como es el caso de la promoción del comercio y las inversiones, el 
fortal ecimiento de la facilitación del comercio, y también enfrentamos desafíos comunes como los 
efectos negativos del cambio climático y de desastres naturales; y por supuesto, tenemos enormes 
oportunidades y actividades comunes como el turismo.  
5.128.   Perú y los país es del Caribe Oriental t enemos muchas áreas por desarrolla r, particularmente,  
el comercio entre nuestros países tiene que continuar impulsándose para lograr cifras significativas.  
5.129.   En este sentido, los exhortamos a seguir trabajando con el mismo espíritu qu e ha 
mencionado la ponente, Embajadora Theodore, quien de manera clara ha manifestado que , es 
realmente satisfactorio ver como las economías pequeñas están trabajando decididamente para 
apoyar un sistema multilateral de comercio justo e inclusivo.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This fourth Trade Policy Review of the OECS -WTO Members has provided us with an excellent 
opportunity to better understand their trade policies and practices since their last Review in 2014 
and acknowledge the challeng es these Members face. The Review has benefitted from the 
constructive and informative participation of the OECS delegation, headed by the Honourable 
Mr Everly Paul Chet Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Antigua  and Barbuda, and Chair 
of the  OECS Council of Ministers of Trade, and from the insightful comments of the discussant, 
Her Excellency  Ambassador Nadia Theodore, Permanent Representative of Canada to the WTO, and 
from the 2 5 delegations that took the floor during the meeting.  
6.2.  Members re cognized that the OECS -WTO Members, as small island developing states, have 
narrow economic bases and are extremely vulnerable to external shocks, such as adverse weather 
conditions, natural disasters, and fluctuations of global commodity markets. The econ omies of the 
OECS -WTO Members are heavily reliant on receipts from tourism. The sharp decline of tourist 
arrivals caused by the COVID -19 pandemic led to an average GDP contraction of some 19% in 2020 
for the OECS -WTO Members as a group. In this respect, we  were glad to learn from 
Minister  Chet Greene on Wednesday that economic activities began to pick up in the first half of  2022 
and were expected to strengthen further in 2023.  
6.3.  Against this backdrop, Members welcomed that the OECS -WTO Members had continued 
pursuing structural reforms during the review period, including the implementation of fiscal 
consolidation programmes aimed at achieving debt sustainability, and reforms seeking to improve 
productivity and diversify the economy. They encouraged the OECS -WTO Members to continue 
seeking economic diversification so as to reduce their dependence on income from tourism.  
6.4.  Some Members noted that climate change poses an existential challenge for the 
OECS -WTO Members. In this respect, the OECS -WTO Members were comme nded for being strong 
supporters of environment -related actions. Some Members invited the OECS -WTO Members to 
participate in the dialogue on plastic pollution and sustainable plastic trade.  
6.5.  Members applauded the constructive role that the OECS -WTO Members play in the multilateral 
trading system, despite their small sizes in terms of population or trade shares. Members welcomed 
the ratifications of the WTO  Agreement on Trade Facilitation by all OECS -WTO Members. Noting that 
the degree of implementation varie d across the OECS -WTO Members, Members urged them to fully 
implement all remaining commitments under the TFA.  
6.6.  Stressing the importance of transparency, some Members noted that there was a  backlog in 
the fulfilment of the OECS -WTO Members' notification obl igations. Members understood that, as 
indicated by Minister  Chet Greene, the failure to notify under WTO  Agreements resulted from 
capacity constraint. Members urged the OECS -WTO Members to make full use of all available 
technical assistance resources, so a s to be able to submit the outstanding notifications in due course.  
6.7.  Some Members encouraged the OECS -WTO Members to accept the WTO  Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies. Other Members expressed their understanding of the OECS -WTO Members' 
interest in the specia l and differential treatment in the fisheries subsidies' negotiations. Several 
Members invited the OECS -WTO Members to explore the possibility of joining the Multi -Party Interim 
Appeal -Arbitration Arrangement, as well as the plurilateral Agreement on Gover nment Procurement. 
Some Members invited all OECS -WTO Members to sponsor the joint statement initiatives on 
eCommerce, Investment Facilitation for Development, and Services Domestic Regulation.  
6.8.  Members praised the OECS -WTO Members for their open trade and f oreign investment 
regimes. They took note of the efforts to improve the business environment undertaken by the 
OECS -WTO Members since the last Review, including the streamlining of customs procedures and 
the modernization of their incentives regimes. In pa rticular, they appreciated the elimination by 
most OECS -WTO Members of incentives schemes associated with export performance. Members also 
welcomed the reforms introduced to the tax schemes for international business companies to align 
domestic practices w ith international standards.  WT/TPR/W/ 226 
 
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  6.9.  Other matters that drew the attention of Members during this Review included tariff schedule 
harmonization among the OECS -WTO Members, import licensing regimes, food security and 
agriculture reform, the implementation of SPS  measures, and intellectual property rights.  
6.10.   These are the key issues that emerged from our discussion. I hope that the delegation of the 
OECS -WTO Members will consider and further reflect on these issues and on the many constructive 
comments they received d uring this Review. A total of 169  advance written questions from 
12 delegations were submitted for this Review. The OECS delegation responded to most of the 
questions submitted before the first day of this meeting. The Review will be concluded once the 
replies to any outstanding and follow -up questions are submitted, within 30  days from today.  
6.11.   I would like to congratulate the six OECS -WTO Members on their fourth Trade Policy Review 
and wish them a safe journey home.  
 
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