While the WTO negotiations flounder, the WTO dispute process carries on. Antigua's DSU Article 22.2 suspension request in the Gambling case is now available. In it, Antigua requests authorization to suspend concessions and obligations in the amount of US$3.443 billion per year to match the level of the alleged nullification or impairment. Antigua explains that "the withdrawal of concessions solely under the GATS is at present not practicable or effective" and therefore it "intends to take countermeasures in the form of suspension of concessions and obligations under the following sections of Part II of the TRIPS":
Section 1: Copyright and related rights
Section 2: Trademarks
Section 4: Industrial designs
Section 5: Patents
Section 7: Protection of undisclosed information
It says it may suspend concessions under the Communication Services sector as well. This request will be on the agenda at the July 24 DSB meeting, where the U.S. will no doubt request arbitration on the matter.
All of this is separate from the GATS Article XXI process, under which the U.S. has notified the WTO that it will withdraw its gambling commitments, with other Members able to request compensation. Antigua has made a request here as well, as have the the EU, Japan and India. I have seen it suggested that China might make a request, but have not seen anything definite about it.
