Korea's approach to non-trade concerns in the World Trade Organisation

Abstract

Non-trade concerns (NTC) are legitimate issues for the WTO. Despite no technical definition being given, food security and environmental protection are referred to as NTC in the Agreement on Agriculture. Trade and policy implications for NTC are under discussion and regarded as the centrepiece of current negotiations. From Korea's perspective, this article identified food security, small-scale family farms, agricultural landscapes and rural viability as the country's key NTC. Based upon newly established concepts of staple or food security crops and the role of domestic production, food security is suggested to be incorporated into all areas of reform commitments. Small-scale family farms and rural viability are also examined within the provisions of the green box.