WTO Trade Policy Review Mechanism
The Trade Policy Review Mechanism (TPRM) was established in 1989 and confirmed by the Marrakesh Agreement establishing the WTO. The objective of the TPRM is to contribute to improved adherence by all members to WTO rules, disciplines and commitments made under WTO multilateral trade agreements. The TPRM assists the smoother functioning of the multilateral trading system by achieving greater transparency in, and understanding of the trade policies and practices of Members.
The TPRM periodically reviews the trade policies and practices of member countries. By end June 2004, the TPRM had conducted 133 reviews since its formation, covering over half of the WTO membership. The TRPM is a valuable forum for building transparency in trade policy making. WTO members are able to openly discuss and provide objective analysis of each others' trade policies. In addition to trade policy formulation, the review process also discusses the economic impact of trade measures and places individual members' trade and economic regimes within the wider context of developments in their regions.
- More information on Trade Policy Reviews being conducted by the WTO and the TPRM
- The TPRM last reviewed Australia's trade policies in 2007. See WTO: Australia's Trade Policy Review 5 and 7 March 2007