The figures they are haggling over in Geneva today

AGRICULTURE accounts for just 10% of global commerce, but is hugely important in the WTO talks to developing countries, who are resisting concessions in other areas until they are satisfied with the agricultural agreement.

Export subsidies are judged to be the most damaging to fair trade because they can give farmers in rich countries the edge over counterparts in the developing world.

It was agreed at the Hong Kong WTO conference last year to eliminate export subsidies by the end of 2013. In return, the EU wants an end to American export credits and food aid, and restrictions for state export companies in Canada and Australia.