Grandfather Clause

Grandfather Clause and the GATT Policy Negotiations

In relation to the GATT Policy Negotiations, Christopher Mark (1993) provided the following explanation and/or definition of Grandfather Clause: A provision in the GATT and other trade agreements permitting signatories to retain domestic legislation that was in effect before the agreement was signed, even though it may be inconsistent with certain provisions of the agreement. Only charter members of GATT may take advantage of its grandfather clause; they are, however, expected to bring their legislation into conformity with GATT provisions as soon as possible.