Dispute between Russia and the WTO: possible arguments in favor of the progressivity of recycling fee

Abstract

Recycling fee for wheeled vehicles, which was introduced in Russia aimed at environmental protection, depends positively on the vehicle’s production year and engine size. A number of countries challenged the compliance of the recycling fee in the WTO Dispute Settlement Body, claiming that it is a hidden tool to protect Russia’s car industry. The paper is devoted to the analysis of the arguments for relationship between the recycling fee and the vehicle’s age and engine size. Also, other factors that influence the vehicles recycling value and compensation for its ecological damage are considered.