Guatemala's GATT membership, as the 103rd contracting party, took effect on Oct. 10.

GATT membership, Mr. Aguilar said, "helped me prepare to compete a little more.

While they have been granted observer status, neither is yet a member, because they have not had the open markets that are required for GATT membership.

GATT membership now includes more than 125 countries.

Because these plurilateral agreements were not accepted by the full GATT membership, they were often informally called "codes".

Ultimately, GATT membership is symbolic and political.

There is no doubt about Taiwan's commitment to a market economy, a standard condition for GATT membership.

Any weapon - Mr Clinton's trade sanctions, GATT membership, or whatever - needs to be wielded with that march in mind.

GATT membership is also important as a sign of legitimacy and acceptance by the world community.

Moscow, which is also seeking GATT membership, is expected to watch the proceedings closely.