Audiovisual services in the GATS: the case of Norway

This paper discusses possible impacts of the Doha round negotiations in the WTO on the audiovisual services sector in Norway. Like most other countries, Norway has not made commitments, but has listed a number of MFN exemptions in the sector. These exemptions have now been brought to the negotiating table. The paper argues that if the MFN exemptions were lifted during the Doha round, this could imply extensive liberalization. The paper also argues that developments in other sectors (telecommunication, advertising, computer and related services, other recreational services), the horizontal agreement on e-commerce and technology affect both the relevance and the means of regulation in the audiovisual sector. It is suggested that supporting local production rather than restricting foreign market access is the most effective way of pursuing cultural policy objectives.