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Abstract
The WTO negotiations on the reform of agricultural tariffs, export subsidies and domestic
support is proving to be increasingly frustrating with little progress since prior to the Cancun
Ministerial of August 2003, apart from an agreement to keep talking. In this paper a possible
outcome in the agricultural negotiations is analysed and the various impacts on exporters, importers
and taxpayers assessed. The results indicate that holding out for exemptions leads to a loss in welfare
for developing countries but export growth is maintained. Whether this is an attractive outcome
depends on priorities. One inherent drawback is that the majority of WTO members will experience a
welfare loss from any likely negotiated agricultural reform.