IP: The Multilateral Agreement on Investment sent in stylized

[Dave Farber <farber@cis.upenn.edu>]

[ I recommend a careful reading on the parts linked in. They do strongly impact you nation and the way you live. djf]http://www.oecd.org/daf/cmis/mai/maindex.htm#top
Updated 29 April 1998

The Multilateral Agreement on Investment

Revised Negotiating Text
Labour and Environment
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Frequently asked questions
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MAI Policy Brief Dec 1997
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OECD Member MAI sites
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OECD Guidelines for multinational enterprises
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Since the launching of negotiations in 1995, major progress has been made in developing a Multilateral Agreement on Investment (MAI) which would provide a comprehensive framework for international investment with high standards of liberalisation and investment protection, and with effective dispute settlement procedures.

The scope of the MAI is to cover all forms of investment coming from MAI investors, including the cross-border establishment of enterprises, the activities of established foreign-owned or controlled enterprises, portfolio investment and intangible assets. The treatment and protection of investors and investments calls for fair and non-discriminatory treatment of foreign investors, and an effective dispute settlement mechanism.
Special topics dealt with in the MAI include performance requirements, investment incentives, temporary stay and work of investors and key personnel, privatization and monopolies. Environment and labour issues and the OECD Guidelines for multinational enterprises also figure prominently in the negotiations.

The MAI will have its own institutional arrangements. It should be compatible with other international agreements, including the IMF and WTO, and should not create obligations on Parties that conflict with their obligations under those agreements.

Final agreement will depend on achieving a satisfactory scope and balance of commitments among the negotiating parties, including agreement on general exceptions, temporary safeguards and country-specific exceptions or reservations.
The MAI is to be a free standing treaty, open to accession by non-Members who are willing and able to meet its obligations. An active dialogue with non-Members has been sustained through the negotiations, including regular briefings in Paris, and regional meetings for Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the Baltic countries.

Consultations have also been held with representatives of business, labour and NGOs.

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development