Text: Action Agenda Will Serve as Template for Future Apec Work (Part 3 and Part 4)
12. DISPUTE MEDIATION
OBJECTIVE
APEC economies will:
a. encourage members to address disputes cooperatively at an early stage with a view to resolving their differences in a manner which will help avoid confrontation and escalation, without prejudice to rights and obligations under the WTO Agreement and other international agreements and without duplicating or detracting from WTO dispute settlement procedures;
b. facilitate and encourage the use of procedures for timely and effective resolution of disputes between private entities and governments and disputes between private parties in the Asia-Pacific region; and
c. ensure increased transparency of government laws, regulations and administrative procedures with a view to reducing and avoiding disputes regarding trade and investment matters in order to promote a secure and predictable business environment.
GUIDELINES
Each APEC economy will:
a. provide for the mutual and effective enforcement of arbitration agreements and the recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards;
b. provide adequate measures to make all laws, regulations, administrative guidelines and policies pertaining to trade and investment publicly available in a prompt, transparent and readily accessible manner; and
c. promote domestic transparency by developing and/or maintaining appropriate and independent review or appeal procedures to expedite review and, where warranted, correction of administrative actions regarding trade and investment.
COLLECTIVE ACTIONS
APEC economies will:
a. with respect to resolution of disputes between APEC economies;
(i) promote dialogue and increased understanding, including exchange of views on any matter that may lead to a dispute, and cooperatively examine on a voluntary basis disputes that arise, utilizing policy dialogue such as the Trade Policy Dialogue of the CTI;
(ii) give further consideration as to how the above Trade Policy Dialogue or similar functions of other fora may be used by APEC economies for the exchange of information, enhanced dialogue and mediation; and
(iii) examine the possible future evolution of procedures for the resolution of disputes as the APEC liberalization and facilitation process develops;
b. with respect to resolution of disputes between private parties, and between private parties and APEC economies;
(i) provide CTI with a listing of arbitration, mediation, and conciliation services available to private entities of other APEC economies, including a description of any such service which might provide a useful model for private-to-government dispute resolution in the Asia-Pacific region, and make such information widely available to the business/private sector in the Asia-Pacific region;
(ii) provide CTI with comments regarding experiences with the above services;
(iii) accede where appropriate by 1997 to international agreements for the settlement of disputes between governments and private entities such as the Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of Other States; and
(iv) accede where appropriate by 1997 to the Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards (New York Convention);
c. with respect to transparency, promote transparency on an APEC-wide basis, through, for example, publication of a guide book on arbitration, mediation, and conciliation services available in each APEC economy; and
d. with respect to the above collective actions, prepare a report on progress, with recommendations, by the end of 1996.
13. MOBILITY OF BUSINESS PEOPLE
OBJECTIVE
APEC economies will enhance the mobility of business people engaged in the conduct of trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region.
GUIDELINES
Each APEC economy will contribute positively to the work on the mobility of business people being undertaken in relevant WTO fora.
COLLECTIVE ACTIONS
APEC economies will:
a. exchange information on regulatory regimes in regard to the mobility of business people in the region;
b. examine the possibility of setting the scope for cooperation at a regional level aimed at streamlining and accelerating:
(i) processing of visas for short term business travel; and
(ii) arrangements for temporary residency for business people to engage in trade and investment; and
c. establish and maintain a dialogue on mobility issues with the business community.
14. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE URUGUAY ROUND OUTCOMES
OBJECTIVE
APEC economies will ensure full and effective implementation of Uruguay Round outcomes within the agreed time frame in a manner fully consistent with the letter and the spirit of the WTO Agreement.
GUIDELINES
a. Each APEC economy which is a WTO member will fully and faithfully implement its respective Uruguay Round commitments.
b. Each APEC economy which is in the process of acceding to the WTO Agreement may participate in APEC Uruguay Round implementation actions through voluntary steps to liberalize its respective trade and investment regimes consistent with the WTO Agreement.
c. Each APEC economy will, on a voluntary basis, accelerate the implementation of Uruguay Round outcomes and deepen and broaden these.
COLLECTIVE ACTIONS
APEC economies will:
a. utilize on an on-going basis Uruguay Round implementation seminars and other appropriate means to:
(i) improve APEC economies' understanding of provisions in the WTO Agreement and obligations thereunder;
(ii) identify operational problems encountered in implementation of the WTO Agreement and areas in which APEC economies may require technical assistance; and
(iii) explore cooperative efforts to provide such technical assistance in implementation;
b. consider implementation of suggestions for follow-on work from Uruguay Round implementation seminars; and
c. undertake technical assistance based on discussion at the above seminars, including cooperative training projects targeted at prevalent implementation problems to be undertaken in conjunction with the WTO Secretariat and other relevant international institutions.
15. INFORMATION GATHERING AND ANALYSIS (GROUNDWORK)
OBJECTIVE
APEC economies will secure a solid platform for the expansion and improvement of Actions in Specific Areas and APEC economies' respective Action Plans by undertaking inter-alia cross-sectoral work.
COLLECTIVE ACTIONS
APEC economies will:
a. conduct surveys as necessary of trade and investment impediments;
b. review and analyze the impact of trade liberalization in the Asia-Pacific region;
c. study and monitor the impact of sub-regional trade arrangements such as NAFTA, Association of South-East Asian Nations Free Trade Area (AFTA) and ANZCERTA;
d. develop databases with regard to merchandise trade, trade in services and direct investment, and update these regularly; and
e. adopt international standards for trade in services and international investment data such as those developed by the IMF.
PART TWO -- ECONOMIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION
SECTION A: ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS
APEC economies will pursue economic and technical cooperation in order to attain sustainable growth and equitable development in the Asia-Pacific region, while reducing economic disparities among APEC economies and improving economic and social well-being. Such efforts will also facilitate the growth of trade and investment in the region.
APEC economies will conduct economic and technical cooperation on the basis of the principles of mutual respect and equality, mutual benefit and assistance, constructive and genuine partnership and consensus building. APEC economies shall make voluntary contributions commensurate with their capabilities and the benefits of the cooperation shall be shared broadly.
In pursuing economic and technical cooperation, APEC economies will develop an environment favorable to the effective operation of market mechanisms and integrate into the cooperation process the business/private sector as well as involve wherever possible other pertinent institutions.
Recognizing their shared responsibility for sustainable development, APEC economies will integrate environmental considerations in all relevant APEC activities.
While respecting the autonomy of each APEC economy over its policies, APEC economies recognize Common Policy Concepts, Joint Activities and Policy Dialogue as the three essential elements to be taken into account in each specific area of APEC economic and technical cooperation.
1. Common Policy Concepts
APEC economies will develop Common Policy Concepts including goals, basic principles and priorities in each specific area of APEC economic and technical cooperation. APEC economies recognize that, given the diversity of the Asia-Pacific region, Common Policy Concepts will serve to:
a. guide Joint Activities; and
b. inform the development of each APEC economy's policies/activities.
2. Joint Activities
In the light of Common Policy concepts, APEC economies will engage in Joint Activities such as compilation and sharing of data and information, surveys, training, seminars, research and technical demonstrations. Various means including Partners for Progress (PFP) will be utilized to strengthen these activities. APEC economies will prepare economic outlooks for the Asia-Pacific region that will provide a useful reference for APEC activities. Joint Activities will serve to:
a. improve APEC economies' ability to analyze current and future economic trends, and develop and implement policy measures;
b. utilize regional resources more effectively; and
c. increase the effectiveness of policy measures.
3. Policy Dialogue
APEC economies will hold Policy Dialogue on economic issues.
a. Dialogue on Common Policy Concepts and Joint Activities will serve to:
-- develop and review Common Policy Concepts;
-- evaluate the effect of Joint Activities;
-- develop further Joint Activities; and
-- identify the best way to implement cooperation in the light of differences in policies among APEC economies; and
b. Dialogue on each APEC economy's policies/activities will allow APEC economies to:
-- share expertise and experience; and
-- consult and exchange views on their policies/activities in the light of Common Policy Concepts.
SECTION B: ECONOMIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION IN SPECIFIC AREAS
Bearing in mind the three essential elements, APEC economies will pursue economic and technical cooperation. The following is an illustrative reference of Common Policy Concepts and Joint Activities/Dialogue in specific areas of cooperation. The full text of Action Programs in specific areas is annexed and forms an integral part of this Action Agenda.
1. HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The people of the Asia-Pacific region are its most important asset. The human resources needs of the region are both expanding and diversifying in tandem with its growth and dynamism. APEC economies will address these by setting priority on the following:
a. providing a quality basic education;
b. analyzing the regional labor market to allow sound forecasting of trends and needs in HRD;
c. increasing the supply and enhancing the quality of managers, entrepreneurs, scientists and educators/trainers;
d. reducing skills deficiencies and unemployment by designing training programs for applications at all stages of a person's working life;
e. improving the quality of curricula, teaching methods and instructional materials for managers and other workers;
f. increasing opportunities for people seeking to gain skills; and
g. preparing organizations and individuals to remain productive in the face of rapid economic and technological changes, as stated in the Declaration on a Human Resources Development Framework, and further engage in; and
h. promoting HRD toward the liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will undertake Human Resources Development Program 21, consisting of twenty-one sub-programs. In this program, APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. implement the APEC Business Volunteer Program, a mechanism for facilitating the voluntary dispatch of business experts among business/private entities in the region in order to exchange and transfer managerial and technical skills;
b. implement the APEC Leaders' Education Initiative, a set of measures to enhance regional cooperation in higher education and to study key regional economic issues, including the establishment of an APEC Study Center in each APEC economy and the promotion of collaborative research on APEC-related issues;
c. conduct studies on teacher development practices, on science education programs, and on uses of technology in education, in order to promote the provision of high quality instruction in basic education;
d. conduct training of executives, managers, engineers, officials and other workers to increase the supply and enhance the quality of these people;
e. accelerate cooperation relating to trade and investment liberalization and facilitation by means such as holding training courses on standards and conformance and intellectual property rights in order to ensure the availability of the experts required to maintain effective systems in these fields; and
f. facilitate the mobility of qualified persons in the region through bilateral agreements between interested APEC economies for the mutual recognition of professional qualifications; and
g. conduct regular dialogue on the HRD policies and HRD situation of each APEC economy, establishing performance indicators such as adult literacy levels and levels of enrollment in elementary and secondary education as a basis for conferral.
2. INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Improved levels of industrial science and technology will enhance economic growth, quality of life, environmental protection and development of a well-balanced industrial structure. APEC economies will improve the IS&T capabilities of each economy by recognizing eight non-binding principles for effective collaboration and by setting priority on the following:
a. improving researcher exchange and human resources development;
b. improving the flows of technological information and technology;
c. facilitating joint research projects;
d. improving the transparency of regulatory frameworks; and
e. contributing to sustainable development.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. establish APEC Joint Research Promotion Guidelines on pre-competitive industrial science and technology which set out common procedures for project identification, cost allocation, protection of intellectual property rights and other aspects, aiming to complete these by the end of 1996;
b. launch joint research projects in and after 1996, starting with projects related to disaster prevention and the environment;
c. seek to expand and develop researcher exchange schemes and engineer training schemes;
d. hold the APEC Technomart, a technology fair, to provide the business/private sector with better access to technological information and expertise;
e. implement projects to improve the flows of information on science and technology, including a study on information access mechanisms with emphasis on strengthening information networks at research laboratory level, to be completed by mid-1997;
f. conduct dialogue on the IS&T policies and IS&T situation of each APEC economy, establishing IS&T indicators such as the number of research institutes as a basis for conferral; and
g. review the IS&T regulatory framework of each APEC economy in fields such as industrial standards and intellectual property rights, to ensure transparency.
3. SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
SMEs are a critical engine for growth and innovation in the Asia-Pacific region, able to respond flexibly to technological advancement and the diversification of consumer needs. APEC economies will cooperate to maintain and develop SME dynamism by improving the economic environment so that SMEs may fully exploit their creativity and mobility, by helping SMEs address priority fields -- human resources, information access, technology and technology sharing, financing and market access - and by improving SME policies. APEC economies will base their cooperation on principles such as:
a. ensuring the availability and transparency of information on their respective SME policies to help improve SME policies in the region;
b. developing and implementing non-discriminatory market-oriented SME policies to maximize SMEs' responses to market mechanisms and to provide the most favorable environment for SME economic activities and for further SME development; and
c. recognizing that SME policies should focus not only on individual enterprises, but also on group enterprises and cooperatives.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. convene training programs, seminars and workshops, including the APEC SME Leaders Workshop on SME policies;
b. undertake an Industrial Outlook Study, consisting of comprehensive/sectoral studies on intra-regional industrial interdependence, to enable SME policy makers and SMEs to come to a better understanding of the economic environment;
c. survey each economy's SME policies and compile APEC best practices in this area in order to enhance mutual understanding of APEC economies' policy practices;
d. design a plan of activities for the APEC Center for Technology Exchange and Training for SMEs as a resource center for handling information networking, developing training opportunities and organizing SME-targeted activities;
e. survey the financial markets for SMEs and hold a Venture Capital Workshop to explore ways to promote SME access to venture capital; and
f. compile in 1996 a directory of agencies which provide support for SMEs.
4. ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The pace of economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region depends on the improvement of economic infrastructure. APEC economies will seek to accelerate infrastructure improvement, facilitating investment in infrastructure and encouraging business/private sector involvement.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. conduct analytical work on issues relating to the overall infrastructure environment;
b. explore ways to enhance the effectiveness of infrastructure improvement, such as:
-- compiling best practices for use as benchmarks in the examination of the respective roles of the public and business/private sectors;
-- developing guidelines on infrastructure investment to ensure a more transparent and coherent environment for the business/private sector; and
c. conduct public-private sector dialogue and consider the possibility of establishing a forum on infrastructure.
5. ENERGY
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Regional energy consumption is rapidly increasing in tandem with the economic expansion of the Asia-Pacific region, turning energy into a potential bottleneck to sustainable economic growth. APEC economies will address the simultaneous achievement of the 3Es by sharing policy principles and enhancing closer cooperation toward the development of APEC as a sustainable energy community.
APEC economies will set priority on the following:
a. fostering a common understanding on regional energy issues;
b. facilitating investment in the energy sector where appropriate;
c. reducing the environmental impact of the energy sector; and
d. accepting equivalence in accreditation and increasing harmonization of energy standards.
APEC economies will develop a range of shared energy goals, building on and expanding the fourteen non-binding policy principles for rational energy consumption.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. begin preliminary work on the Asia Pacific Energy Research Center (APERC) immediately, establish the APERC in mid-1996, and initiate joint work on the APEC regional energy outlook to be completed by 1997;
b. consolidate the APEC energy database and disseminate the data contained therein regularly;
c. develop by the end of 1996, in partnership with the business/private sector, a guidance framework to facilitate investment in electricity infrastructure by removing institutional, regulatory and procedural impediments;
d. consider issues associated with addressing the risks and impact of potential imbalances between energy supply and demand;
e. improve environmental performance through expanded programs in the fields of clean coal technology, renewable energy sources and end-use energy conservation measures, leading to exploration of cooperative multilateral programs to reduce climate change concerns such as demonstration projects which lead to joint implementation;
f. reach agreement on the mutual recognition of testing protocols and the accreditation of laboratories, as well as the acceptance of test results, by the end of 1999; and
g. undertake mutual examination of energy policies in line with common policy concepts.
6. TRANSPORTATION
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The ability of a transportation system to efficiently handle the movement of people and goods is critical in order to maximize economic productivity, facilitate trade and contribute to the mobility of people. APEC economies will therefore seek to develop an efficient, safe and integrated regional transportation system. The development of the transportation sector should promote equitable economic development to help people of all APEC economies share the benefits of economic growth. APEC economies will set priority on the following:
a. facilitating the harmonization, coordination and transparency of transport policies, regulations, procedures and standards;
b. promoting timely rational investment in the transport infrastructure;
c. encouraging the efficient use of existing infrastructure through the application of appropriate trade and transport facilitation techniques;
d. promoting transport system safety and security;
e. promoting, on the basis of fair and equitable access to markets, a more competitive transportation operating environment and cooperating to address institutional constraints which affect the provision of transportation services; and
f. facilitating the improvement of productivity, skills and efficiency of labor and management in the transport industry.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. complete by 1996 Phase Two of the Transportation Congestion Points Study, analyzing the major bottlenecks at land, sea and airports, and complete by 1996 Phase Three, providing a best practices manual of how economies can address their respective bottlenecks;
b. start considering at an appropriate time how to enter into strategic consultation in development of well integrated regional transportation infrastructure;
c. establish in 1996 the APEC Urban Transport Forum to develop transportation systems that help reduce congestion and are energy efficient and environmentally friendly;
d. establish in 1996 a group of experts to identify aviation safety problems;
e. complete by 1997 a survey/analysis of aviation safety and security problems and develop a plan of action based on experience with a pilot project on satellite navigation and communication systems;
f. consider by 1997 establishing a group of marine safety experts and a security experts group, based on experience with the aviation safety experts group; and
g. commence in 1996 the evaluation of seafarers training needs.
7. TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
As the economic interdependence among APEC economies deepens, telecommunications and information infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region has a critical role to play in strengthening market linkages and enhancing trade and investment liberalization and facilitation. APEC economies will therefore seek to develop an Asia-Pacific Information Infrastructure (APII) on the basis of the following ten principles:
a. encouraging APEC economies in the construction of domestic telecommunications and information infrastructure based on their own reality;
b. promoting a competition driven environment;
c. encouraging business/private sector investment and participation;
d. creating a flexible policy and regulatory framework;
e. intensifying cooperation among APEC economies;
f. narrowing the infrastructure gap between the developed and the industrializing economies;
g. ensuring open and non-discriminatory access to public telecommunications networks for all information providers and users in accordance with domestic laws and regulations;
h. ensuring universal provision of and access to public telecommunications services;
i. promoting diversity of content, including cultural and linguistic diversity; and
j. ensuring the protection of intellectual property rights, privacy and data security.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. conform, where appropriate, to the Guidelines on Trade in International Value-Added Network Services (IVANS) by 1998 and generally conform, where appropriate, to the Guidelines on the regional Harmonization of Equipment Certification Procedures;
b. continue to work to harmonize administrative procedures governing certification of customer telecommunications equipment;
c. develop and begin to implement on an elective basis a model Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Conformity Assessment for telecommunications equipment by the end of 1997;
d. publish regular reports on the state of the telecommunications regulatory environment and infrastructure development in each APEC economy in order to improve business/private sector access to related policies, regulations and other information;
e. promote electronic commerce through seminars, studies on electronic data interchange application development, and experiments on the interoperability and suitability for electronic commerce of various networks;
f. increase cooperation in infrastructure activities between APEC and other international institutions and fora;
g. implement the APII Test-Bed Projects, including the demonstration projects for interoperability and interconnectability, in cooperation with G7 countries; and
h. promote human resources development by means such as holding training courses on privatization and competition in telecommunications and information industries, and working towards a distance learning pilot project for experts in this area.
8. TOURISM
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The tourism industry is of growing importance in promoting economic growth and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. APEC economies will seek to achieve long-term environmental and social sustainability of the tourism industry by setting priority on the following:
a. removing barriers to tourism movements and investment and liberalizing trade in services associated with tourism;
b. developing and implementing the concepts of environmental and social sustainability in tourism development;
c. facilitating and promoting human resources development;
d. enlarging the role of the business/private sector;
e. developing cooperation and programs in the fields of information-based services related to trade in tourism; and
f. sharing information among APEC economies.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. protect and conserve cultural heritage and natural sites;
b. promote best practice models for environmental and social sustainability in tourism development;
c. expand tools for human resources development;
d. develop a database of core statistical information and improve the system for exchanging tourism information on a regular basis;
e. undertake environmental projects in the tourism area;
f. identify impediments to tourism growth and formulate strategies for the improvement of tourism movements and investment in the region; and
g. conduct a dialogue among APEC economies to facilitate and enlarge the roles of the private/business sector in tourism development.
9. TRADE AND INVESTMENT DATA
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Improved data on international trade and investment among APEC economies will facilitate better understanding of trade and investment activities in the Asia-Pacific region and contribute to better market analysis and policy-making. APEC economies will improve the availability and comparability of international trade and investment data, and establish a database for such statistics.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter- alia:
a. develop a Trade and Investment Data Database (TIDDB), which will include data on international merchandise trade, services trade and investment;
b. work towards improving the consistency of data by adopting the latest international standards for compilation of data on international services trade and investment; and
c. provide training in use of the TIDDB system and in the collection, compilation and estimation of data on international services trade and investment.
10. TRADE PROMOTION
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
APEC economies will seek to stimulate intra-regional trade through trade promotion measures such as holding trade fairs, disseminating information on trade-related issues and potential business opportunities, and providing advice on trade-related procedures.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. hold APEC Trade Fairs on a regular basis;
b. establish a network among trade promotion organizations in order to enhance linkages and cooperation among them;
c. improve and convene training courses for the furtherance of trade promotion-related skills, and develop a mechanism for the exchange of trade promotion experts;
d. compile information on measures supporting and facilitating import and export activities in each APEC economy, and disseminate this to the business/private sector and trade promotion organizations; and
e. exchange information in the field of trade financing.
11. MARINE RESOURCE CONSERVATION
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The marine environment contributes substantially to the economic viability of APEC economies through trade in fisheries and aquaculture products, other marine commodities and tourism. These are dependent on active conservation of marine resources and the marine environment, degradation of which has significant socioeconomic costs. While enhancing trade and investment in marine products, APEC economies will aim to protect the marine environment and to ensure continuing socioeconomic benefit. APEC economies will set priority on the following:
a. addressing coastal zone planning and management;
b. enhancing coordination in the implementation of relevant UNCED recommendations; and
c. reviewing and resolving marine algal toxin issues.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. make recommendations on related policies, standards, certification, regulatory requirements, conformance assurance and other areas;
b. improve the flow of information on marine resource management and conservation;
c. provide guidance on management of critical areas of their coastal zones, and also on development of effective communication, information exchange and planning mechanisms by 1998;
d. assess structural barriers to the conservation and sustainable development of marine resources, set priorities for action and develop an action framework by 1999; and
e. conduct policy dialogue to share scientific and technical information, to identify and assess environmental issues, and to develop practical, action-oriented approaches to maintaining the quality of the marine environment.
12. FISHERIES
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Fisheries is unique in that its production base, as a natural resource, is limited. APEC economies will seek to maximize the economic benefits to be gained from fisheries resources by promoting their long-term optimum sustainable utilization. Accordingly, APEC economies will set priority on the following:
a. promoting the conservation and sustainable use of fisheries resources, the sustainable development of aquaculture as well as habitat preservation;
b. solving common fisheries resource management problems and aquaculture disease control;
c. enhancing the food safety and quality of fish and fisheries products; and
d. promoting sector specific work relating to trade and investment liberalization and facilitation.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. hold a conference on the quality and safety of fisheries products;
b. compile a profile of agencies involved in fisheries in APEC;
c. improve seafood inspection regimes;
d. gather and analyze information on supply and demand trends relating to fisheries trade;
e. encourage the use of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points);
f. promote cooperation in resolving resource management issues;
g. promote harmonized standards for fisheries products;
h. consider applying economic instruments to address environmental and resource management challenges; and
i. collect and analyze information on sector specific barriers to trade including tariff and non-tariff measures and administrative barriers.
13. AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Given differences in needs and levels of development among APEC economies, strengthening Agricultural Technical Cooperation (ATC) is expected to lead to balanced agricultural development, resource utilization and conservation as well as improved food variety and quality. APEC economies will seek to enhance the capability of agriculture and its related industries to contribute to economic growth and social well-being. APEC economies will undertake ATC on the basis of principles including:
a. paying due consideration to the diversity of agricultural sectors;
b. recognizing the rapid changes occurring in the agricultural sector; and
c. adding value to activities undertaken by international agencies.
JOINT ACTIVITIES
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. promote the exchange of plant and animal germplasm by, for instance, establishing a network for germplasm-related information by 1997;
b. enhance biotechnology research and development by, for instance, establishing a database on expertise by 1997;
c. promote marketing and processing of agricultural products by, for instance, collecting and exchanging information on technical cooperation capacities and requirements by 1996;
d. strengthen regional cooperation in plant and animal quarantine and pest management through, for instance, the establishment of an information network;
e. promote cooperation in the development of agricultural finance systems through, for instance, the exchange of information and experts among APEC economies by 1997;
f. promote technology transfer by, for instance, identifying areas of common interest by 1996; and
g. promote agricultural technical training by, for instance, establishing training programs and information assistance for electronic dissemination by 1998.
SECTION C: FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF ECONOMIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION
APEC fora will make proposals for the expansion and improvement of Common Policy Concepts, Joint Activities and Policy Dialogue in their respective areas where appropriate. The inclusion of additional areas to those initially defined in Section B: Economic and Technical Cooperation in Specific Areas may be considered. Proposals on the above will be submitted to the Ministerial Meeting.
APEC fora, including Working Groups, the Policy Level Group and the Experts Meeting, will begin the work outlined in Section B: Economic and Technical Cooperation in Specific Areas immediately after the Osaka Economic Leaders' Meeting, cooperating with each other to enhance the efficiency of APEC activities. In the above process, duplication of work among APEC fora should be avoided.
Each APEC forum will submit an annual progress report to the SOM. The SOM will review this progress and submit a report to the annual Ministerial Meeting for review. Work by relevant APEC Ministerial Meetings should be duly recognized.
This Action Agenda may be revised and improved as necessary based on the overall progress of liberalization, facilitation and cooperation in APEC.
OBJECTIVE
APEC economies will:
a. encourage members to address disputes cooperatively at an early stage with a view to resolving their differences in a manner which will help avoid confrontation and escalation, without prejudice to rights and obligations under the WTO Agreement and other international agreements and without duplicating or detracting from WTO dispute settlement procedures;
b. facilitate and encourage the use of procedures for timely and effective resolution of disputes between private entities and governments and disputes between private parties in the Asia-Pacific region; and
c. ensure increased transparency of government laws, regulations and administrative procedures with a view to reducing and avoiding disputes regarding trade and investment matters in order to promote a secure and predictable business environment.
GUIDELINES
Each APEC economy will:
a. provide for the mutual and effective enforcement of arbitration agreements and the recognition and enforcement of arbitral awards;
b. provide adequate measures to make all laws, regulations, administrative guidelines and policies pertaining to trade and investment publicly available in a prompt, transparent and readily accessible manner; and
c. promote domestic transparency by developing and/or maintaining appropriate and independent review or appeal procedures to expedite review and, where warranted, correction of administrative actions regarding trade and investment.
COLLECTIVE ACTIONS
APEC economies will:
a. with respect to resolution of disputes between APEC economies;
(i) promote dialogue and increased understanding, including exchange of views on any matter that may lead to a dispute, and cooperatively examine on a voluntary basis disputes that arise, utilizing policy dialogue such as the Trade Policy Dialogue of the CTI;
(ii) give further consideration as to how the above Trade Policy Dialogue or similar functions of other fora may be used by APEC economies for the exchange of information, enhanced dialogue and mediation; and
(iii) examine the possible future evolution of procedures for the resolution of disputes as the APEC liberalization and facilitation process develops;
b. with respect to resolution of disputes between private parties, and between private parties and APEC economies;
(i) provide CTI with a listing of arbitration, mediation, and conciliation services available to private entities of other APEC economies, including a description of any such service which might provide a useful model for private-to-government dispute resolution in the Asia-Pacific region, and make such information widely available to the business/private sector in the Asia-Pacific region;
(ii) provide CTI with comments regarding experiences with the above services;
(iii) accede where appropriate by 1997 to international agreements for the settlement of disputes between governments and private entities such as the Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of Other States; and
(iv) accede where appropriate by 1997 to the Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards (New York Convention);
c. with respect to transparency, promote transparency on an APEC-wide basis, through, for example, publication of a guide book on arbitration, mediation, and conciliation services available in each APEC economy; and
d. with respect to the above collective actions, prepare a report on progress, with recommendations, by the end of 1996.
13. MOBILITY OF BUSINESS PEOPLE
OBJECTIVE
APEC economies will enhance the mobility of business people engaged in the conduct of trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region.
GUIDELINES
Each APEC economy will contribute positively to the work on the mobility of business people being undertaken in relevant WTO fora.
COLLECTIVE ACTIONS
APEC economies will:
a. exchange information on regulatory regimes in regard to the mobility of business people in the region;
b. examine the possibility of setting the scope for cooperation at a regional level aimed at streamlining and accelerating:
(i) processing of visas for short term business travel; and
(ii) arrangements for temporary residency for business people to engage in trade and investment; and
c. establish and maintain a dialogue on mobility issues with the business community.
14. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE URUGUAY ROUND OUTCOMES
OBJECTIVE
APEC economies will ensure full and effective implementation of Uruguay Round outcomes within the agreed time frame in a manner fully consistent with the letter and the spirit of the WTO Agreement.
GUIDELINES
a. Each APEC economy which is a WTO member will fully and faithfully implement its respective Uruguay Round commitments.
b. Each APEC economy which is in the process of acceding to the WTO Agreement may participate in APEC Uruguay Round implementation actions through voluntary steps to liberalize its respective trade and investment regimes consistent with the WTO Agreement.
c. Each APEC economy will, on a voluntary basis, accelerate the implementation of Uruguay Round outcomes and deepen and broaden these.
COLLECTIVE ACTIONS
APEC economies will:
a. utilize on an on-going basis Uruguay Round implementation seminars and other appropriate means to:
(i) improve APEC economies' understanding of provisions in the WTO Agreement and obligations thereunder;
(ii) identify operational problems encountered in implementation of the WTO Agreement and areas in which APEC economies may require technical assistance; and
(iii) explore cooperative efforts to provide such technical assistance in implementation;
b. consider implementation of suggestions for follow-on work from Uruguay Round implementation seminars; and
c. undertake technical assistance based on discussion at the above seminars, including cooperative training projects targeted at prevalent implementation problems to be undertaken in conjunction with the WTO Secretariat and other relevant international institutions.
15. INFORMATION GATHERING AND ANALYSIS (GROUNDWORK)
OBJECTIVE
APEC economies will secure a solid platform for the expansion and improvement of Actions in Specific Areas and APEC economies' respective Action Plans by undertaking inter-alia cross-sectoral work.
COLLECTIVE ACTIONS
APEC economies will:
a. conduct surveys as necessary of trade and investment impediments;
b. review and analyze the impact of trade liberalization in the Asia-Pacific region;
c. study and monitor the impact of sub-regional trade arrangements such as NAFTA, Association of South-East Asian Nations Free Trade Area (AFTA) and ANZCERTA;
d. develop databases with regard to merchandise trade, trade in services and direct investment, and update these regularly; and
e. adopt international standards for trade in services and international investment data such as those developed by the IMF.
PART TWO -- ECONOMIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION
SECTION A: ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS
APEC economies will pursue economic and technical cooperation in order to attain sustainable growth and equitable development in the Asia-Pacific region, while reducing economic disparities among APEC economies and improving economic and social well-being. Such efforts will also facilitate the growth of trade and investment in the region.
APEC economies will conduct economic and technical cooperation on the basis of the principles of mutual respect and equality, mutual benefit and assistance, constructive and genuine partnership and consensus building. APEC economies shall make voluntary contributions commensurate with their capabilities and the benefits of the cooperation shall be shared broadly.
In pursuing economic and technical cooperation, APEC economies will develop an environment favorable to the effective operation of market mechanisms and integrate into the cooperation process the business/private sector as well as involve wherever possible other pertinent institutions.
Recognizing their shared responsibility for sustainable development, APEC economies will integrate environmental considerations in all relevant APEC activities.
While respecting the autonomy of each APEC economy over its policies, APEC economies recognize Common Policy Concepts, Joint Activities and Policy Dialogue as the three essential elements to be taken into account in each specific area of APEC economic and technical cooperation.
1. Common Policy Concepts
APEC economies will develop Common Policy Concepts including goals, basic principles and priorities in each specific area of APEC economic and technical cooperation. APEC economies recognize that, given the diversity of the Asia-Pacific region, Common Policy Concepts will serve to:
a. guide Joint Activities; and
b. inform the development of each APEC economy's policies/activities.
2. Joint Activities
In the light of Common Policy concepts, APEC economies will engage in Joint Activities such as compilation and sharing of data and information, surveys, training, seminars, research and technical demonstrations. Various means including Partners for Progress (PFP) will be utilized to strengthen these activities. APEC economies will prepare economic outlooks for the Asia-Pacific region that will provide a useful reference for APEC activities. Joint Activities will serve to:
a. improve APEC economies' ability to analyze current and future economic trends, and develop and implement policy measures;
b. utilize regional resources more effectively; and
c. increase the effectiveness of policy measures.
3. Policy Dialogue
APEC economies will hold Policy Dialogue on economic issues.
a. Dialogue on Common Policy Concepts and Joint Activities will serve to:
-- develop and review Common Policy Concepts;
-- evaluate the effect of Joint Activities;
-- develop further Joint Activities; and
-- identify the best way to implement cooperation in the light of differences in policies among APEC economies; and
b. Dialogue on each APEC economy's policies/activities will allow APEC economies to:
-- share expertise and experience; and
-- consult and exchange views on their policies/activities in the light of Common Policy Concepts.
SECTION B: ECONOMIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION IN SPECIFIC AREAS
Bearing in mind the three essential elements, APEC economies will pursue economic and technical cooperation. The following is an illustrative reference of Common Policy Concepts and Joint Activities/Dialogue in specific areas of cooperation. The full text of Action Programs in specific areas is annexed and forms an integral part of this Action Agenda.
1. HUMAN RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The people of the Asia-Pacific region are its most important asset. The human resources needs of the region are both expanding and diversifying in tandem with its growth and dynamism. APEC economies will address these by setting priority on the following:
a. providing a quality basic education;
b. analyzing the regional labor market to allow sound forecasting of trends and needs in HRD;
c. increasing the supply and enhancing the quality of managers, entrepreneurs, scientists and educators/trainers;
d. reducing skills deficiencies and unemployment by designing training programs for applications at all stages of a person's working life;
e. improving the quality of curricula, teaching methods and instructional materials for managers and other workers;
f. increasing opportunities for people seeking to gain skills; and
g. preparing organizations and individuals to remain productive in the face of rapid economic and technological changes, as stated in the Declaration on a Human Resources Development Framework, and further engage in; and
h. promoting HRD toward the liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will undertake Human Resources Development Program 21, consisting of twenty-one sub-programs. In this program, APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. implement the APEC Business Volunteer Program, a mechanism for facilitating the voluntary dispatch of business experts among business/private entities in the region in order to exchange and transfer managerial and technical skills;
b. implement the APEC Leaders' Education Initiative, a set of measures to enhance regional cooperation in higher education and to study key regional economic issues, including the establishment of an APEC Study Center in each APEC economy and the promotion of collaborative research on APEC-related issues;
c. conduct studies on teacher development practices, on science education programs, and on uses of technology in education, in order to promote the provision of high quality instruction in basic education;
d. conduct training of executives, managers, engineers, officials and other workers to increase the supply and enhance the quality of these people;
e. accelerate cooperation relating to trade and investment liberalization and facilitation by means such as holding training courses on standards and conformance and intellectual property rights in order to ensure the availability of the experts required to maintain effective systems in these fields; and
f. facilitate the mobility of qualified persons in the region through bilateral agreements between interested APEC economies for the mutual recognition of professional qualifications; and
g. conduct regular dialogue on the HRD policies and HRD situation of each APEC economy, establishing performance indicators such as adult literacy levels and levels of enrollment in elementary and secondary education as a basis for conferral.
2. INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Improved levels of industrial science and technology will enhance economic growth, quality of life, environmental protection and development of a well-balanced industrial structure. APEC economies will improve the IS&T capabilities of each economy by recognizing eight non-binding principles for effective collaboration and by setting priority on the following:
a. improving researcher exchange and human resources development;
b. improving the flows of technological information and technology;
c. facilitating joint research projects;
d. improving the transparency of regulatory frameworks; and
e. contributing to sustainable development.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. establish APEC Joint Research Promotion Guidelines on pre-competitive industrial science and technology which set out common procedures for project identification, cost allocation, protection of intellectual property rights and other aspects, aiming to complete these by the end of 1996;
b. launch joint research projects in and after 1996, starting with projects related to disaster prevention and the environment;
c. seek to expand and develop researcher exchange schemes and engineer training schemes;
d. hold the APEC Technomart, a technology fair, to provide the business/private sector with better access to technological information and expertise;
e. implement projects to improve the flows of information on science and technology, including a study on information access mechanisms with emphasis on strengthening information networks at research laboratory level, to be completed by mid-1997;
f. conduct dialogue on the IS&T policies and IS&T situation of each APEC economy, establishing IS&T indicators such as the number of research institutes as a basis for conferral; and
g. review the IS&T regulatory framework of each APEC economy in fields such as industrial standards and intellectual property rights, to ensure transparency.
3. SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
SMEs are a critical engine for growth and innovation in the Asia-Pacific region, able to respond flexibly to technological advancement and the diversification of consumer needs. APEC economies will cooperate to maintain and develop SME dynamism by improving the economic environment so that SMEs may fully exploit their creativity and mobility, by helping SMEs address priority fields -- human resources, information access, technology and technology sharing, financing and market access - and by improving SME policies. APEC economies will base their cooperation on principles such as:
a. ensuring the availability and transparency of information on their respective SME policies to help improve SME policies in the region;
b. developing and implementing non-discriminatory market-oriented SME policies to maximize SMEs' responses to market mechanisms and to provide the most favorable environment for SME economic activities and for further SME development; and
c. recognizing that SME policies should focus not only on individual enterprises, but also on group enterprises and cooperatives.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. convene training programs, seminars and workshops, including the APEC SME Leaders Workshop on SME policies;
b. undertake an Industrial Outlook Study, consisting of comprehensive/sectoral studies on intra-regional industrial interdependence, to enable SME policy makers and SMEs to come to a better understanding of the economic environment;
c. survey each economy's SME policies and compile APEC best practices in this area in order to enhance mutual understanding of APEC economies' policy practices;
d. design a plan of activities for the APEC Center for Technology Exchange and Training for SMEs as a resource center for handling information networking, developing training opportunities and organizing SME-targeted activities;
e. survey the financial markets for SMEs and hold a Venture Capital Workshop to explore ways to promote SME access to venture capital; and
f. compile in 1996 a directory of agencies which provide support for SMEs.
4. ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The pace of economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region depends on the improvement of economic infrastructure. APEC economies will seek to accelerate infrastructure improvement, facilitating investment in infrastructure and encouraging business/private sector involvement.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. conduct analytical work on issues relating to the overall infrastructure environment;
b. explore ways to enhance the effectiveness of infrastructure improvement, such as:
-- compiling best practices for use as benchmarks in the examination of the respective roles of the public and business/private sectors;
-- developing guidelines on infrastructure investment to ensure a more transparent and coherent environment for the business/private sector; and
c. conduct public-private sector dialogue and consider the possibility of establishing a forum on infrastructure.
5. ENERGY
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Regional energy consumption is rapidly increasing in tandem with the economic expansion of the Asia-Pacific region, turning energy into a potential bottleneck to sustainable economic growth. APEC economies will address the simultaneous achievement of the 3Es by sharing policy principles and enhancing closer cooperation toward the development of APEC as a sustainable energy community.
APEC economies will set priority on the following:
a. fostering a common understanding on regional energy issues;
b. facilitating investment in the energy sector where appropriate;
c. reducing the environmental impact of the energy sector; and
d. accepting equivalence in accreditation and increasing harmonization of energy standards.
APEC economies will develop a range of shared energy goals, building on and expanding the fourteen non-binding policy principles for rational energy consumption.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. begin preliminary work on the Asia Pacific Energy Research Center (APERC) immediately, establish the APERC in mid-1996, and initiate joint work on the APEC regional energy outlook to be completed by 1997;
b. consolidate the APEC energy database and disseminate the data contained therein regularly;
c. develop by the end of 1996, in partnership with the business/private sector, a guidance framework to facilitate investment in electricity infrastructure by removing institutional, regulatory and procedural impediments;
d. consider issues associated with addressing the risks and impact of potential imbalances between energy supply and demand;
e. improve environmental performance through expanded programs in the fields of clean coal technology, renewable energy sources and end-use energy conservation measures, leading to exploration of cooperative multilateral programs to reduce climate change concerns such as demonstration projects which lead to joint implementation;
f. reach agreement on the mutual recognition of testing protocols and the accreditation of laboratories, as well as the acceptance of test results, by the end of 1999; and
g. undertake mutual examination of energy policies in line with common policy concepts.
6. TRANSPORTATION
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The ability of a transportation system to efficiently handle the movement of people and goods is critical in order to maximize economic productivity, facilitate trade and contribute to the mobility of people. APEC economies will therefore seek to develop an efficient, safe and integrated regional transportation system. The development of the transportation sector should promote equitable economic development to help people of all APEC economies share the benefits of economic growth. APEC economies will set priority on the following:
a. facilitating the harmonization, coordination and transparency of transport policies, regulations, procedures and standards;
b. promoting timely rational investment in the transport infrastructure;
c. encouraging the efficient use of existing infrastructure through the application of appropriate trade and transport facilitation techniques;
d. promoting transport system safety and security;
e. promoting, on the basis of fair and equitable access to markets, a more competitive transportation operating environment and cooperating to address institutional constraints which affect the provision of transportation services; and
f. facilitating the improvement of productivity, skills and efficiency of labor and management in the transport industry.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. complete by 1996 Phase Two of the Transportation Congestion Points Study, analyzing the major bottlenecks at land, sea and airports, and complete by 1996 Phase Three, providing a best practices manual of how economies can address their respective bottlenecks;
b. start considering at an appropriate time how to enter into strategic consultation in development of well integrated regional transportation infrastructure;
c. establish in 1996 the APEC Urban Transport Forum to develop transportation systems that help reduce congestion and are energy efficient and environmentally friendly;
d. establish in 1996 a group of experts to identify aviation safety problems;
e. complete by 1997 a survey/analysis of aviation safety and security problems and develop a plan of action based on experience with a pilot project on satellite navigation and communication systems;
f. consider by 1997 establishing a group of marine safety experts and a security experts group, based on experience with the aviation safety experts group; and
g. commence in 1996 the evaluation of seafarers training needs.
7. TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
As the economic interdependence among APEC economies deepens, telecommunications and information infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region has a critical role to play in strengthening market linkages and enhancing trade and investment liberalization and facilitation. APEC economies will therefore seek to develop an Asia-Pacific Information Infrastructure (APII) on the basis of the following ten principles:
a. encouraging APEC economies in the construction of domestic telecommunications and information infrastructure based on their own reality;
b. promoting a competition driven environment;
c. encouraging business/private sector investment and participation;
d. creating a flexible policy and regulatory framework;
e. intensifying cooperation among APEC economies;
f. narrowing the infrastructure gap between the developed and the industrializing economies;
g. ensuring open and non-discriminatory access to public telecommunications networks for all information providers and users in accordance with domestic laws and regulations;
h. ensuring universal provision of and access to public telecommunications services;
i. promoting diversity of content, including cultural and linguistic diversity; and
j. ensuring the protection of intellectual property rights, privacy and data security.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. conform, where appropriate, to the Guidelines on Trade in International Value-Added Network Services (IVANS) by 1998 and generally conform, where appropriate, to the Guidelines on the regional Harmonization of Equipment Certification Procedures;
b. continue to work to harmonize administrative procedures governing certification of customer telecommunications equipment;
c. develop and begin to implement on an elective basis a model Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Conformity Assessment for telecommunications equipment by the end of 1997;
d. publish regular reports on the state of the telecommunications regulatory environment and infrastructure development in each APEC economy in order to improve business/private sector access to related policies, regulations and other information;
e. promote electronic commerce through seminars, studies on electronic data interchange application development, and experiments on the interoperability and suitability for electronic commerce of various networks;
f. increase cooperation in infrastructure activities between APEC and other international institutions and fora;
g. implement the APII Test-Bed Projects, including the demonstration projects for interoperability and interconnectability, in cooperation with G7 countries; and
h. promote human resources development by means such as holding training courses on privatization and competition in telecommunications and information industries, and working towards a distance learning pilot project for experts in this area.
8. TOURISM
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The tourism industry is of growing importance in promoting economic growth and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. APEC economies will seek to achieve long-term environmental and social sustainability of the tourism industry by setting priority on the following:
a. removing barriers to tourism movements and investment and liberalizing trade in services associated with tourism;
b. developing and implementing the concepts of environmental and social sustainability in tourism development;
c. facilitating and promoting human resources development;
d. enlarging the role of the business/private sector;
e. developing cooperation and programs in the fields of information-based services related to trade in tourism; and
f. sharing information among APEC economies.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. protect and conserve cultural heritage and natural sites;
b. promote best practice models for environmental and social sustainability in tourism development;
c. expand tools for human resources development;
d. develop a database of core statistical information and improve the system for exchanging tourism information on a regular basis;
e. undertake environmental projects in the tourism area;
f. identify impediments to tourism growth and formulate strategies for the improvement of tourism movements and investment in the region; and
g. conduct a dialogue among APEC economies to facilitate and enlarge the roles of the private/business sector in tourism development.
9. TRADE AND INVESTMENT DATA
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Improved data on international trade and investment among APEC economies will facilitate better understanding of trade and investment activities in the Asia-Pacific region and contribute to better market analysis and policy-making. APEC economies will improve the availability and comparability of international trade and investment data, and establish a database for such statistics.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter- alia:
a. develop a Trade and Investment Data Database (TIDDB), which will include data on international merchandise trade, services trade and investment;
b. work towards improving the consistency of data by adopting the latest international standards for compilation of data on international services trade and investment; and
c. provide training in use of the TIDDB system and in the collection, compilation and estimation of data on international services trade and investment.
10. TRADE PROMOTION
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
APEC economies will seek to stimulate intra-regional trade through trade promotion measures such as holding trade fairs, disseminating information on trade-related issues and potential business opportunities, and providing advice on trade-related procedures.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. hold APEC Trade Fairs on a regular basis;
b. establish a network among trade promotion organizations in order to enhance linkages and cooperation among them;
c. improve and convene training courses for the furtherance of trade promotion-related skills, and develop a mechanism for the exchange of trade promotion experts;
d. compile information on measures supporting and facilitating import and export activities in each APEC economy, and disseminate this to the business/private sector and trade promotion organizations; and
e. exchange information in the field of trade financing.
11. MARINE RESOURCE CONSERVATION
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
The marine environment contributes substantially to the economic viability of APEC economies through trade in fisheries and aquaculture products, other marine commodities and tourism. These are dependent on active conservation of marine resources and the marine environment, degradation of which has significant socioeconomic costs. While enhancing trade and investment in marine products, APEC economies will aim to protect the marine environment and to ensure continuing socioeconomic benefit. APEC economies will set priority on the following:
a. addressing coastal zone planning and management;
b. enhancing coordination in the implementation of relevant UNCED recommendations; and
c. reviewing and resolving marine algal toxin issues.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. make recommendations on related policies, standards, certification, regulatory requirements, conformance assurance and other areas;
b. improve the flow of information on marine resource management and conservation;
c. provide guidance on management of critical areas of their coastal zones, and also on development of effective communication, information exchange and planning mechanisms by 1998;
d. assess structural barriers to the conservation and sustainable development of marine resources, set priorities for action and develop an action framework by 1999; and
e. conduct policy dialogue to share scientific and technical information, to identify and assess environmental issues, and to develop practical, action-oriented approaches to maintaining the quality of the marine environment.
12. FISHERIES
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Fisheries is unique in that its production base, as a natural resource, is limited. APEC economies will seek to maximize the economic benefits to be gained from fisheries resources by promoting their long-term optimum sustainable utilization. Accordingly, APEC economies will set priority on the following:
a. promoting the conservation and sustainable use of fisheries resources, the sustainable development of aquaculture as well as habitat preservation;
b. solving common fisheries resource management problems and aquaculture disease control;
c. enhancing the food safety and quality of fish and fisheries products; and
d. promoting sector specific work relating to trade and investment liberalization and facilitation.
JOINT ACTIVITIES/DIALOGUE
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. hold a conference on the quality and safety of fisheries products;
b. compile a profile of agencies involved in fisheries in APEC;
c. improve seafood inspection regimes;
d. gather and analyze information on supply and demand trends relating to fisheries trade;
e. encourage the use of HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points);
f. promote cooperation in resolving resource management issues;
g. promote harmonized standards for fisheries products;
h. consider applying economic instruments to address environmental and resource management challenges; and
i. collect and analyze information on sector specific barriers to trade including tariff and non-tariff measures and administrative barriers.
13. AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY
COMMON POLICY CONCEPTS
Given differences in needs and levels of development among APEC economies, strengthening Agricultural Technical Cooperation (ATC) is expected to lead to balanced agricultural development, resource utilization and conservation as well as improved food variety and quality. APEC economies will seek to enhance the capability of agriculture and its related industries to contribute to economic growth and social well-being. APEC economies will undertake ATC on the basis of principles including:
a. paying due consideration to the diversity of agricultural sectors;
b. recognizing the rapid changes occurring in the agricultural sector; and
c. adding value to activities undertaken by international agencies.
JOINT ACTIVITIES
APEC economies will, inter-alia:
a. promote the exchange of plant and animal germplasm by, for instance, establishing a network for germplasm-related information by 1997;
b. enhance biotechnology research and development by, for instance, establishing a database on expertise by 1997;
c. promote marketing and processing of agricultural products by, for instance, collecting and exchanging information on technical cooperation capacities and requirements by 1996;
d. strengthen regional cooperation in plant and animal quarantine and pest management through, for instance, the establishment of an information network;
e. promote cooperation in the development of agricultural finance systems through, for instance, the exchange of information and experts among APEC economies by 1997;
f. promote technology transfer by, for instance, identifying areas of common interest by 1996; and
g. promote agricultural technical training by, for instance, establishing training programs and information assistance for electronic dissemination by 1998.
SECTION C: FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF ECONOMIC AND TECHNICAL COOPERATION
APEC fora will make proposals for the expansion and improvement of Common Policy Concepts, Joint Activities and Policy Dialogue in their respective areas where appropriate. The inclusion of additional areas to those initially defined in Section B: Economic and Technical Cooperation in Specific Areas may be considered. Proposals on the above will be submitted to the Ministerial Meeting.
APEC fora, including Working Groups, the Policy Level Group and the Experts Meeting, will begin the work outlined in Section B: Economic and Technical Cooperation in Specific Areas immediately after the Osaka Economic Leaders' Meeting, cooperating with each other to enhance the efficiency of APEC activities. In the above process, duplication of work among APEC fora should be avoided.
Each APEC forum will submit an annual progress report to the SOM. The SOM will review this progress and submit a report to the annual Ministerial Meeting for review. Work by relevant APEC Ministerial Meetings should be duly recognized.
This Action Agenda may be revised and improved as necessary based on the overall progress of liberalization, facilitation and cooperation in APEC.