Trade forum looks at online gambling

                                   Speakers

                              Lode Van den Hende
                    The Law Firm of Herbert Smith (Brussels)

                                 Brian Pomper
    Parven Pomper Schuyler Inc, (Former Chief International Trade Counsel to
                          The Senate Finance Committee)

                               Naotaka Matsukata
                                 Alston & Bird
                                  Moderator

    

In 2003, Antigua and Barbuda filed a WTO case against the United States that has had some large consequences. Originally the issue was whether the United States had violated its WTO commitments by restricting the ability of trading partners to supply cross-border betting services (internet gambling).

Now, after a series of formal findings by the WTO, the United States has officially withdrawn its "never intended" commitment to allow trading partners to offer internet gambling in the U.S. This is a new game with new players, namely countries who believe themselves harmed by this change and who are seeking compensation. The list includes the European Union, India, Costa Rica, Macao, Canada, and, of course Antigua are Barbuda. The stakes are potentially huge and the issue is likely to be on the table this week when the EU Trade Commissioner, Peter Mandelson, visits Washington.

Time, Place, and Registration. This event will be held in the Zenger Room at the National Press Club, 529 14th Street, NW, Washington. Registration will open at 2:00 p.m. and the event itself will run from 2:30 - 4 p.m.