August 2009

The Trade Policy Unit  convened  a regional consultation on Regional Integration and Cooperation

The TPU in collaboration with the Regional Integration Unit convened a two-day consultation on regional integration and cooperation in Saint Lucia on August 17-18th which brought together National Authorising Officers, trade and finance officials as well as representatives of the CARICOM Secretariat and Eastern Caribbean Central Bank.

The Consultation examined a Regional Integration Roadmap prepared by the CARIFORUM Secretariat to be financed by the European Union which includes a work programme for the establishment of the OECS Economic Union. The meeting identified priorities such as the support to enhance the competitiveness of enterprises and agreed on activities for revision of the Roadmap.

OECS Secretariat to hold Consultation on Integration and Cooperation

The Trade Policy Unit assists Dominica  with implementation of the CSME

The Unit was part of a delegation to Dominica during 13-14th August which discussed a report that examined the country’s laws to determine whether they are compliant with the arrangements under the CSME. This mission took place under the auspices of the CIDA funded CSME Trade and Competitiveness Project. This Project seeks to streamline procedures and facilitate increased participation of stakeholders in the implementation of the CSME.

The mission also comprised representatives of the CSME Unit and CARICAD. The mission met with officials from ministries such as Trade, Labour, Energy, Finance, representatives of the private sector and the Minister of Trade. The Secretariat is an implementing partner for the Project and has responsibility for activities in the OECS Member States. It is anticipated that the findings of the report will assist the government of Dominica in making legislative and administrative changes so that CARICOM nationals will be able to exercise their rights to trade, travel and establish business in Dominica.

OECS Secretariat to assist Dominica with Implementation of the CSME

The Trade Policy Unit prepares to host a regional consultation on Intellectual Property Rights in October

The Unit, in collaboration with the Hub & Spokes project will convene an OECS Consultation on the Implications of the WTO DDA Negotiations for Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) on October 28 - 29, 2009, in the Commonwealth of Dominica for trade and intellectual property officials.  The conclusions and recommendations of this meeting are expected to inform the OECS positions on TRIPS.

The meeting will receive an update on the negotiations on intellectual property in the World Trade Organisation, and elicit responses from officials on the issues of interest for the region.  The outcome of the meeting will be included in an OECS position paper on trade related intellectual property rights which will be tabled at the WTO and the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).

The next issue of UpDate will treat with regional and international trade issues.

Email contact: tpu@oecs.org