WTO talks stalled going into final day amid U.S.-India e-commerce deadlock 10h ago

World Trade Organization (WTO) talks in Cameroon were stalled on their final day, March 29, with a significant deadlock between the United States and India over the extension of a moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions. The U.S. is pushing for a permanent extension of the ban on duties for digital downloads, while India has indicated a willingness to accept only a two-year extension. This e-commerce moratorium is considered a crucial test of the WTO's relevance amidst global trade instability. Business leaders emphasize the need for predictability, fearing the reintroduction of duties. Discussions are exploring potential compromises, including a 10-year extension or a "pathway to permanence," but agreement remains elusive, with some diplomats suggesting extensions beyond two years are unlikely.

















