What is the time frame for the proposed reforms?
: We are proposing a five-year implementation period for phase one, which would begin after the negotiations have concluded. Based on the timeline outlined in Doha, reductions would begin on reducing export subsidies, tariffs, and allowed level of trade-distorting support in 2006 and be phased in through 2010. The timeline for phase two – the elimination of all tariffs and trade-distorting support – will be established in this negotiation. Q: Why are we doing this now? A: In November of last year, WTO members launched the Doha Development Agenda, a wide-ranging set of negotiating goals for liberalizing global trade among World Trade Organization members. The Doha agenda solidified the importance of agricultural trade and its role in maintaining world prosperity and unity. In the Doha negotiations, we agreed to an ambitious agenda and timeline for reform in agriculture. Specifically, we agreed to substantially improve market access, to reduce, with a view to phasing out, export subsidie
