Communication from Argentina:
I have been instructed by the competent authorities to inform you that the questions posed by Switzerland refer to issues dealt with at the following consultations with the United States in the framework of the DSU: "Argentina - Patent Protection for Pharmaceuticals and Test Data Protection for Agricultural Chemicals" (WT/DS171) and "Argentina - Certain Measures on the Protection of Patents and Test Data" (WT/DS196).
It should also be mentioned that Switzerland is taking part in both consultations as a third party.
In the light of the above and in order to protect its rights at the said consultations, Argentina will not be answering the questions posed by Switzerland within the framework of the review of national implementing legislation by the Council for TRIPS.
Argentina wishes to take this opportunity to point out to Switzerland that, although it confirms its willingness to fulfil its obligations with regard to the review of national implementing legislation by the Council for TRIPS, it is in its interest to ensure that the review process does not prejudice or affect either the course or the outcome of the consultations being held under the DSU.
