Special and Differential Treatment (SDT)
China announced it will no longer seek new “special and differential treatment” (S&DT) at WTO talks, marking a shift in its trade stance. S&DT provisions are special rights in WTO agreements that grant developing and least-developed countries (LDCs) flexibility in implementing trade commitments.
They provide longer transition periods, softer obligations, and greater policy space compared to developed countries. Introduced under GATT (1960s) through the “Enabling Clause” (1979) recognising the development needs of poorer nations. Consolidated in the WTO Agreements (1995) and reinforced in the Doha Development Agenda (2001). Aim is to level the playing field in global trade by addressing structural disadvantages of developing economies,to ensure that trade liberalisation does not undermine domestic development priorities.
