Guide to WTO Telecom Reference Paper Implementation: Best Practices for APEC Members

1. APEC Telecommunications & Information Working Group Best Practices for Implementing the WTO Telecommunications Reference Paper Bill Scott Director, Trade Policy bill.scott@dcita.gov.au

2. background

3. background • March 2002 (TEL25) – Proposal was submitted to assist TEL members to strengthen members’ common understanding of the WTO Agreement on Basic Telecommunications, including the Reference Paper. • TEL established a drafting committee (Australia, Canada, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Japan and United States) to develop the “Best Practices for Implementing the WTO Telecommunications Reference Paper” • The draft guide was discussed at TEL 30 (September 2004). • Final guide to be presented to APEC Telecommunications Ministers for endorsement mid-2005.

4. Objective

5. Objective • Provide APEC member economies with a better understanding of the commitments made in the WTO Telecommunications Reference Paper by: • Providing real world examples to illustrate the meaning and principles contained in the paper; and • Showcase best practices in implementing the commitments made in the reference paper to guide effective implementation.

6. Guide Format

7. Outline • Introduction • Chapter 1 – Definitions • Chapter 2 – Competitive Safeguards • Chapter 3 – Interconnection • Chapter 4 – Universal Service • Chapter 5 – Licensing Criteria • Chapter 6 – Independent Regulators • Chapter 7 – Allocation and Use of Scarce Resources • Appendix

9. Example - Interconnection

13. Example – Universal Service

17. Example – Independent Regulation

22. Other APEC Trade Initiatives

23. Trade Projects • Best Practices for Regional Trade Agreements & Free Trade Agreements (APEC wide) • Progress Towards Implementing the WTO Telecommunications Reference Paper (APEC TEL)

24. Thank you