I would like to share with you some insights on what I see are issues in which the PA should focus attention during 2016:
- The Commercial Protocol entering into force early in the year and the corresponding steps for the implementation of many of its provisions. Two examples are the provisions on mutual recognition of professional licencies/authorisations/certifications to professional services suppliers, and the working plan on harmonization for sanitary and phytosanitary measures. The particular implementation of the commercial protocol should be accompanied with a road map allowing follow up on the progress made.
- Definition of the steps forward for the formation and consolidation of regional value chains through the design of regional policies in this regard, including strategies for participation of SMEs. This issue is a basic example of how important the design and construction of regional policies will be for the long term vision of the PA. The PA as a whole should not underestimate the importance of the members insertion into other regional value chains, for instance in Asia, with products and inputs of more added value rather that just primary raw materials.
