HYBRID EVENT

Venue: WTO – Room F

The purpose of the panel will be to analyze how the “zero for zero” agreement eliminating tariffs on the vast majority of spirits products contributed to a better world; why it remains timely and relevant in the discussion on sustainable and inclusive re-globalization; and why more countries should consider joining.

30 years ago, several major economies – the US, the EU, Japan, and Canada – agreed to remove import tariffs on the vast majority of spirits products. Many countries have joined this arrangement since then. This, so-called, “Zero for Zero” tariff agreement not only facilitated international trade in spirits, but also boosted the global interconnectivity of the spirits sector, stimulating cross-border investments into domestic manufacturing across continents that created jobs, boosted innovation in sustainable products and production processes, and made our supply chains global.

Please note that this event will be held at the World Trade Organization and will be limited to those who have registered for the WTO Public Forum.

Speakers:

• Helen S. Medina, CEO, World Spirits Alliance
• Lucian Cernat, Head of Global Regulatory Cooperation and International Procurement Negotiations, European Commission
• Franck Renaudin, Director of Artisan Cooperages & International Sales for Independent, Independent Stave Company WTO Ambassador