The ongoing stalemate on the Harmonization Work Programme (HWP) with respect to non-preferential rules of origin (RoO) has left business trade negotiators and customs officials negotiating free trade agreements (FTAs) in a “no man’s land.” Progress is clearly needed to ensure trade facilitation, not only for least-developed countries (LDCs), but all states in the period ahead. This paper examines some of the current limitations on RoO and the causes of deadlock. It also reviews lessons learned thus far in the implementation of RoO to put forward recommendations concerning cumulation, administration, and the need to take into account services in the manufacturing process.

Read Full Material: Link

This is an overview report of the Rules of Origin Dialogue held November 21-22, 2016. The report report provides an analysis and evaluation of rules of origin in the context of RTAs and the multilater... READ MORE

This paper reviews reciprocal and unilateral preferential rules of origin, including the possibility of introducing expanded cumulation flexibilities to show why they are seemingly resistant to harmon... READ MORE

Access to preferential import tariffs under a free trade agreement (FTA) is governed by clearly defined rules of origin designed to prevent non-members from enjoying the benefits. However, a company’s... READ MORE