WTO解释义务减让表的逻辑、基本方法及解决路径

The Logic, Basic Method and Solution Path of WTO Interpretation of Schedules of Concession

义务减让表属于条约的范畴。由于部分义务减让表的相关条款过于原则或模糊,当事方会因条约解释上的分歧而产生国际争端。通常,争端解决机构依据VCLT第31、32条的规定进行解释。但是,义务减让表具有与其他WTO涵盖协定不同的特性,这种特性决定了其解释方法的特殊性。义务减让表具有双边性和契约性,不当解释会损害当事方之间权利义务的平衡。基于此,争端解决机构过于重视文义解释的方法,在个案中弱化成员方的真实意图。这种做法有违DSU第3.2条为其设定的职责,值得关注和研究。

The schedules of concession fall within the scope of treaties. Since some terms of the schedules are too principled or vague, the parties may create international disputes arising from differences in treaty interpretation. In general, DSB interpret treaties in accordance with Articles 31 and 32 of the VCLT. However, the schedules of concession have different characteristics from those of other WTO-covered agreements, which determine the particularity of their interpretation methods. The schedules of concession are bilateral and contractual, and improper interpretation can impair the balance of rights and obligations between the parties. On this basis, the DSB places too much emphasis on the method of literal interpretation, thus weakening the true intentions of the members in the case. This is in violation of the DSU Article 3.2 for its set of responsibilities, worthy of attention and research.