Seattle FTA Negotiations End Without Progress
The third round of Korean-US FTA talks held in Seattle ended without reaching a consensus on controversial items. During the talks, each side urged the other to open sensitive issues, such as textiles and agricultural goods. It is expected that the fourth round, to be held in Korea and tentatively scheduled from Oct. 23 until 27, will be also tough.
According to a government source, Korea demanded early elimination of tariffs in its areas of interest, such as textiles, and tariff exemptions. Seoul’s chief negotiator Kim Jong-hoon said at a press conference on September 9, “Because both sides kept their stance during the talks, we had to end the talks without real progress. During the talks the US submitted some remodeled drafts on merchandise and textiles, but it was beyond Korean expectations.” He added that negotiations will have to continue through next year.
The American top negotiator, Culter, said, “We are also disappointed, as much as Korea. We demanded elimination of tariffs on imported agricultural goods, and we didn’t accept the proposals from Korea on anti-dumping and trade remedies.” Like Kim Jong-hoon, she admitted that she hoped to reach a consensus on some issues, but there was no progress during these negotiations. But she showed hope there will be progress next time.
It is reported that Korea requested the US to bilaterally admit the certification of professional; whereas, the US pressed Korea to open the markets of delivery, accounting, and broadcasting. In addition, Washington asserted opening the automobile market to increase its auto exports, urging Korea to abolish the tax system levied on the basis of engine displacement. Seoul responded that the domestic market share of US vehicles is dependent on American automobile quality competitiveness.
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 / 입력시간: 2006. 09.12. 16:27
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