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: a list of sensitive items for WTO negotiations. We manufacture and export knit fabrics. How is the list significant for us?
—Amit Sethi, Goomber Tex, Ludhiana through email

During the recent WTO Ministerial Conference in Hong Kong, an understanding was reached, as part of the negotiations on non-agricultural market access (Nama), to allow developing countries to keep a list of not more than 10% tariff lines which would be free from ‘bindings’, ie countries could impose higher import duties if they so desire. The ministry of commerce and industry has identified 454 items as sensitive after a detailed analysis. Import duties on these would not have to be lowered.

The significance for you is two- fold: One, if you feel your product is of strategic interest or if a large number of livelihoods could be endangered if the duties are lowered, you may plead to the government for inclusion of your item in the list. Two, if your inputs/raw materials are in the list, they are most likely to attract higher duty protection. Your input costs would increase, adversely affecting your competitiveness. The list is accessible at http://www.smenetwork.net