World Trade Organization

Communication from the United States

For consideration of all WTO Members, the United States presents this proposal on higher (tertiary) education, adult education and training services. At the outset, it is important to note that the proposal recognizes that education to a large extent is a government function, but that most countries permit private education to coexist with public education. The proposal, therefore, envisions that private education and training will continue to supplement, not displace, public education systems. This paper is intended to stimulate discussion and help liberalize trade in this important sector in the world economy.