Global Studies

Task Force on Rules of the Energy Trade & Investment

Concerns about security of supply by consuming nations and security of demand by supplying nations are more pronounced than ever and threaten the international fabric of the globe. Clearer international rules governing energy trade and investment are demanded. GATT and the WTO Agreement govern trans-border movement of energy in general, but not in a coordinated manner leaving many unanswered questions. New forms of energy such as biofuels and the issue of carbon footprints are conspicuously absent. The objective of the Task Force is a systematic analysis of how WTO rules and regional trade agreements affect international energy trade and to make recommendations for improving or clarifying those rules consistent with the interests of the energy industry. The ultimate goal is to work directly with the World Trade Organization and other international organizations, as well as NGOs active in the field, on preparations for the next round of trade negotiations (post-Doha) so as to ensure energy goods and services are included in the mandate.

Europe regional studies will be coordinated with this Task Force. This study will be completed by the end of 2009.