Invitation to Submit Requests for Harmonization...
30 December 2003
Invitation to Submit Requests for Harmonization of the MFN Tariffs with the US and Mexico
On 7 October 2003 at the NAFTA Commission meeting in Montreal, NAFTA trade ministers announced consultations will be launched with domestic industries to determine interest in reducing trade-related transaction costs through the harmonization of MRN tariffs and/or the liberalization of NAFTA rules of origin.
In Part I of the “Canada Gazette” of 20 December 2003, interested parties were invited to submit requests for further liberalization of NAFTA trade that may be achieved through one or both of
(1) the harmonization of MFN tariffs with the US and Mexico; and
(2) the liberalization of the rules of origin under NAFTA.
The main objective of the exercise is to identify products and/or sectors for which there is industry support to harmonize tariffs and liberalize rules of origin. It is envisaged that more liberal rules of origin would facilitate trade between the three NAFTA parties.
…The governments of the NAFTA parties will consider requests that enjoy broad-based support in their industries.
Comments or requests must be received no later than 13 February 2004, addressed to Sylvie Larose at 613-996-5887 or 613-995-3843 (fax) or by e-mail to [email protected]. Further information on this matter is found on the Canada Gazette web site, at
http://canadagazette.gc.ca/partI/2003/20031220/html/notice-e.html#i2