Some weeks ago I enquired what had been gained by small and vulnerable countries like ours in the recently concluded World Trade Organisation deal. I am disappointed that I have not seen – perhaps I have missed the press release – any definitive statement from, for instance, the Caricom Secretariat.
I have read that there were four Declarations agreed on agricultural issues. “Declarations?” Forget them. They are like the summoning of spirits from the vastry deep by Glendower in Shakespeare’s Henry IV – but will they come when they are called? They certainly will not. Declarations of intent that come to nothing are a time-dishonoured device in international trade negotiations to salve the consciences of the rich and powerful.
And I have read that there was agreement on “trade facilitation” – simplifying customs procedures and updating infrastructure – worth, we are