The World Trade Organization General Council will review the trade dispute between South Korea and Japan today over Tokyo's latest export restrictions on three key materials crucial for the production of semiconductors and displays.
Depending on the results of today's meeting, Seoul plans to decide whether to file a complaint with the WTO against the Japanese measure.
So, how does the WTO system work and how effective will it be in resolving this particular dispute?
Joining me live from Geneva via Skype is Stephanie Noel, international trade attorney - she specializes in WTO agreements and international dispute settlements.
Stephanie, welcome to the program.
Stephanie, you have dealt with caes before the WTO dispute settlement body (at the Panel and Appellate Body stages)... First of all, explain to us how the WTO dispute settlement works and when it is that member states take cases to the international body? How are decisions made?
In the case of South Korea and Japan this time, what can we expect the trade officials from each side to argue?
Based on your experience and expertise in the WTO and trade dispute settlement, how should the South Korean side make its case so as to strengthen its argument?
In your view, is WTO the ultimate solution to this trade row between Seoul and Tokyo? Can the WTO finally and completely settle this issue?
