Global Innovation Networks and their Implications for the Multilateral Trading System

This think piece examines the emergence of global innovations networks and their implications for multilateral trade rules. After pointing out, that the WTO agreements were reached with little direct attention paid to globally connected innovation and the close links among innovation, trade and investment, the think piece seeks to identify a number of options to enhance the contribution of multilateral trade rules in support of global innovation networks. Options examined include expanding GATS to encourage temporary mobility of skilled workers, considering whether procurement agreements should cover public research grants and in a longer term perspective, considering the possibility of negotiating a multilateral agreement at the WTO on access to basic science and technology (ABST).