The Executive Workshop on Negotiating and Drafting Rules of Origin (RoO) for the World Trade Organization (WTO) LDC Group is a two-day intensive workshop aimed at enhancing the capacity of LDC delegates to engage effectively in multilateral trade negotiations. Hosted by UN Trade and Development and the European University Institute (EUI), this workshop will provide in-depth analysis and practical insights into RoO in the multilateral trading system, with a focus on preparing submissions for the WTO Committee on Rules of Origin (CRO).

Key Topics:

• Understanding the outcome of the General Council and MC 13 on RoO;
• Updates on arising issues on Rules of Origin at multilateral and regional level;
• Recent studies carry out by UNCTAD and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on best practices in Asia and the Pacific;
• Reports from European Free Trade Association (EFTA) findings and discussions on utilization rates;
• Convergence on product specific rules of origin for LDCs for the CRO;
• Addressing utilization versus under-utilization of trade preferences.

The presenters from UN Trade and Development, WTO, the World Customs Organization (WCO), ADB, EFTA, government officials, and business leaders will lead interactive discussions and share best practices in RoO negotiation and implementation.

Participants will gain valuable insights into RoO best practices, engage in discussions on pending issues, and prepare for the upcoming CRO session in April 2024.

This workshop aligns with the renewed mandate of the CRO to intensify work on identifying best practices in RoO and related administrative requirements. It provides a platform for knowledge exchange, capacity-building, and collaboration among LDC delegates, stakeholders, and experts in the field of international trade.