Date:20/12/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/12/20/stories/2005122000281002.htm

Back WTO talks

The WTO decision at the Hong Kong Ministerial will bring some succour to farmers who face stiff competition from their counterparts in developed countries. The rider attached to the text that a substantial portion of the support will have to be scrapped by 2013 could result in cutting subsidies to the farming community.

While completing the full modalities of the agreement in 2006, this aspect should be re-examined. It is relieving to note that the Doha Round of talks could carry on after 2006. But the organisation should ensure protection of the interests of poor and the under-developed nations.

C. P. Velayudhan Nair

Kochi

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