MULTILATERAL GOODS-TRADE FRAMEWORKS
General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT)
The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade is a foundational framework for trade in goods. GATT 1994 forms part of the WTO agreements, while the earlier GATT institutional system preceded the WTO.
GENERAL AGREEMENT ON TARIFFS AND TRADE IN PRACTICE
- Identify the frameworkDistinguish historical and current legal references.
- Review the transaction rulesUse current jurisdiction and product requirements.
- Verify the applicationObtain appropriate trade advice where needed.
Use the agreed units, actual records and approved procedures for your operation.
A WORKED EXAMPLE
A trade principle is not a shipment-rate lookup.
An importer sees GATT referenced in a trade explanation. It still needs the applicable classification, origin, valuation and current measures for its goods. The framework does not replace that transaction-specific review.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR QUOTE
Agree the requirement before comparing quotes
Use the actual shipment, stock and service requirements. Record the billing unit, included work and responsibility for exceptions.
A LITTLE MORE CONTEXT
Questions about General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade
Did the WTO replace GATT as an institution?
Yes. GATT rules also continue within the WTO framework.
Does GATT mean all tariffs are zero?
No.
Does the acronym determine one shipment’s duty?
No. Review the actual transaction rules.
Source & example notes
WTO: GATT glossary and relationship to WTO.
Sources provide background on the linked topic. Product documentation describes a particular implementation; confirm the rules, contract and procedures that apply to your operation.
Quantities, costs and scenarios are illustrative, not operating targets, approved handling instructions or guarantees. Source guidance reviewed 22 October 2026.
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