""We worked hard," WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said, adding that the US and Brazil in particular "need more time" to work out their differences over the agreement to impose levies on cross-border online orders."
""It's not US vs Brazil. It's Brazil and Turkey vs 164 members," said a US official of the discussions, while Brasilia accused Washington of "wanting the sky.""
""It's particularly concerning at a time of real strain on the global economy," said International Chamber of Commerce Secretary General John Denton, expressing displeasure with the stalemate."
The WTO meeting in Yaounde concluded without major agreements after Brazil blocked an e-commerce resolution. The US sought a permanent moratorium on taxes for online transactions, while Brazil wanted a limited extension. Tensions arose as Brazil protested over agricultural issues. The WTO faces ongoing challenges in reaching consensus, raising concerns about its relevance amid global economic strains. Talks will continue in Geneva until at least May, as dissatisfaction grows among economists and business leaders regarding the stalemate.
Read at www.dw.com
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