GATT Codes

GATT Codes and the GATT Policy Negotiations

In relation to the GATT Policy Negotiations, Christopher Mark (1993) provided the following explanation and/or definition of GATT Codes: Agreements negotiated under GATT auspices to remove or lessen the trade-distorting effects of nontariff measures by prescribing signatories' rights and obligations concerning use of such measures as well as countermeasures that may be applied in response. Only the signatories of a GATT Code are bound by its terms. During the Tokyo Round, codes were negotiated governing subsidies and countervailing duties; standards and technical barriers to trade; import licensing procedures; customs valuation; and government purchasing policies. In addition, the existing GA TT antidumping code was revised.