Aug 25, 2008: Recent Comments on Russia's Accession to the WTO

Recent public comments by Russian Federation Government officials on agreements related to WTO have generated much speculation and commentary about Russia’s view of WTO accession. In an effort to provide a balanced perspective, AmCham quotes below what First Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Shuvalov actually said as well as clarifications given to AmCham by Mr. Shuvalov's office on August 25.

Igor Shuvalov, First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, stated on August 25 that “WTO accession is in line with Russia 's strategic interests, and we will do everything necessary for talks to conclude with Russia joining. However, for the time being, we must note that we see no prospects for WTO accession within several months or a year."

He also said that Russia “intends to notify its WTO partners about its withdrawal from accords that are in conflict with Russia’s interests."

The American Chamber of Commerce in Russia contacted Mr. Shuvalov’s office in order to clarify recent events pertaining to the possible suspension of WTO commitments Russia had made during WTO accession talks.

AmCham was informed that although Russia would continue the accession process, it would also analyze the list of trade agreements it had previously reached with the WTO, and in particular those it considers to be burdensome.

At the moment, however, the government does not have a list of onerous trade agreements or a concrete plan to suspend these agreements. There are only plans to analyze existing agreements to decide if it will be necessary to freeze some of them until the time of Russia’s accession to the WTO.