U.S.-Europe deal over technology is reported near; but trade snags remain; Asians, French and the British retain objections, risking delay to global accord

Article Abstract:

The US and the European Union have almost finalized an accord to remove tariffs on hundreds of technology products. American and European negotiators at the World Trade Organization continue to work on details of the trade agreement, including the timing of some tariff reductions and the inclusion of particular products. Additionally, France has asked for clarification of what CD-ROM content will be covered under the pact. Nonetheless, the negotiators are confident that most of the 127 members of the World Trade Organization will sign the final accord. The agreement will be the greatest accomplishment of the Organization's first meeting and may encourage other efforts to reduce trade barriers. It does not address all impediments to free trade, however. Distributing foreign products in Japan remains a problem as do issues about workers' rights and child labor laws in some member countries.

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U.S.-Europe accord is seen on technology trade issues; a key step toward global tariff-cut pact

Article Abstract:

The US and the European Union are close to reaching an agreement liberalizing trade in the computer and telecommunications global market. Although Europe's 15 trade ministers withheld their approval of the current draft of the pact, experts in both the US and Europe anticipate that the deal will be finalized. The information technology agreement is the culmination of the 1996 World Trade Organization meeting. The agreement is expected to be a precursor to another pact that will include at least 17 nations in addition to the US and European Union. Before finalization, negotiators need to resolve the timing by which tariffs on semiconductor products will be phased out. Italy has objected to the omission of optic fibers in the accord. France worried about the possible inclusion of some CD-ROM audio recordings.

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F.T.C. opens hearings on computers' threat to Americans' right to privacy

Article Abstract:

The Federal Trade Commission is holding hearings on how computer databases are infringing on the privacy rights of Americans. The topic is being debated by Government officials, consumer advocates and executives of information companies. The ability of computers to collect and spread information about consumers that is extremely personal has created a growing enterprise that is for the most part unregulated. Representatives of the industry argue that government intervention would be both counterproductive and expensive and that the industry is capable of regulating itself. The response of civil libertarians was to claim the industry's practices were a threat to the personal freedom of American consumers.

United States. Federal Trade Commission, Industry legal issue

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