Implementing for the United States Article VIII of the Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization Concerning Legal Capacity and Privileges and Immunities
Designates World Trade Organization for United States Privileges and Immunities
What it does
The order directs the Secretary of State to apply and administer specified privileges and immunities for the World Trade Organization, including property-use decisions.
Real-world impact
- Grants the World Trade Organization legal immunities and exemptions in the United States.
- Limits tax and national-service exemptions for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
- Secretary of State decides property-use tax status and defines 'Foreign Minister' for approvals.
Topics
Summary
This order implements part of the World Trade Organization agreement that covers legal status and protections. It applies the United Nations Convention on privileges and immunities to the World Trade Organization, designates the organization as a public international organization under United States law, and sets specific limits on tax, immigration, and national-service exemptions.
The Secretary of State will decide whether World Trade Organization property is used for organization purposes and will be treated as the 'Foreign Minister' for certain approvals. It preserves other existing rights.
Questions, answered
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