The Battle for Free Trade

The failure to launch a new round of global trade talks in Seattle amid mass protests highlights deep divisions over the issue of free trade, once seen as the engine of world economic growth. BBC News Online provides full coverage of the events and controversy.

---

World trade talks collapse

The WTO's attempts to launch a new trade round in Seattle end in failure after four days of bitter disputes and street protests.

Other stories:

• WTO tarnished by Seattle fiasco
• Developing countries claim victory
• The battle of Seattle
• Anatomy of failure
• Who's to blame?
• Clinton drive on labour rights
• Who's afraid of the WTO?
• Picture gallery: Protests in Seattle
• Timeline: four days in Seattle

Audio/visual media

"Labour proved the sticking point"
Andrew Walker analyses the negotiations
"Together we have common responsibilities"
President Clinton at the WTO
"A disaster for world trade"
Paul Reynolds on the collapse of the trade talks

Texts and transcripts
World trade organisation official briefing

---

Trade bullies and blocs

Trade has been growing faster than world output. But a free trading system has been difficult to fashion.

Other stories:

• An illustrated history of free trade
• WTO: policing world trade
• Developing countries fight for free trade
• Global hopes, global fears
• Trade: engine of world growth

---

Free trade flashpoints

It should be simple. But even constructing an agenda has stymied trade talks, as the BBC's Andrew Walker explains.

Other stories:

• Investment puzzle for WTO
• WTO counters eco-critics
• The WTO's labour battle
• EU makes biotech concessions
• WTO tackles the internet
• Clashes on agriculture

---

Arguments and controversies

Everyone is in favour of free trade - but everyone interprets it differently. The BBC's Chris Giles supplies a guide for the perplexed.

Other stories:

• Stop environmental destruction
• Free trade: good for all
• Does free trade benefit the poor?

Audio/visual media

"Labour standards will hurt the poor"
Robert Pigott on developing countries' concerns

---

China moves to join the WTO

Advocates of free trade are encouraged as China reached a deal with the USA that moves it closer to joining the WTO.

Other stories:

• China's big gamble
• Business eyes China market
• Deal to boost economy