CANCUN, Mexico -Global trade talks collapsed Sunday as poor countries balked at proposals by rich nations to make it easier for multinational corporations to invest and operate around the globe, while refusing to cut agricultural subsidies for farmers in wealthy countries.
The 146 trade ministers had spent five days in World Trade Organization talks, but in the end were unable to agree on much of anything. The failed negotiations dealt a setback to President Bush’s ambitious trade agenda – which has bipartisan support on Capitol Hill – and to White House plans to negotiate a Free Trade Area of the Americas by 2005.
Trade ministers from 34 nations in the hemisphere are scheduled to meet in Miami in late November to discuss progress, but the newest development could mean the White House faces an uphill battle.

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