Services, economic development and the next round of negotiations on services

World trade in services amounted to $2170 billion in 1997, of which 40 per cent was cross-border consumption. Though service trade liberalization is hard to model, sectoral and general equilibrium analyses indicate the scope for major welfare gains. Reforms in services will be driven by domestic agendas, but they can be supported and complemented by commitments to GATS disciplines. Developing country commitments in the GATS, as well as commitments in their areas of interest, are limited. Incentives are needed in the next WTO trade round to encourage commitment to a more balanced and comprehensive coverage. The trade inhibiting effect of domestic regulation requires particular attention. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.