How does the CWC affect the international trade of chemicals and related technology?
Many developing countries are concerned that the worldwide effort to eliminate chemical weapons will generate increased controls on the exchange of chemical technology and equipment that is crucial to their continuing commercial and industrial advancement. The CWC attempts to establish a balance between ending the proliferation of chemical weapons and promoting the exchange of scientific and technological knowledge necessary for industrial, agricultural, medical, and pharmaceutical development. Countries deciding not to join the CWC have been denied access to trade in Schedule 2 chemicals since May 2000. Treaty members may only trade in Schedule 2 chemicals with other CWC members. Regarding Schedule 3 chemicals, signatories are required to receive assurances (e.g., end-user certificates) that Schedule 3 chemicals transferred to non-signatories would not be used for purposes prohibited by the CWC. In 2002, the Conference of State Parties will weigh the application of trade restrictions
