Entered into force February 15, 1999.
In accordance with Article XXV, the Agreement is subject to ratification, acceptance or approval by the Signatories in accordance with their domestic laws and procedures and, in accordance with Article XXVI, the Agreement shall remain open to accession by any State or regional economic integration organization that meets the requirements in Article XXIV, or is otherwise invited to accede to the Agreement on the basis of a decision by the Parties.
In accordance with Article XXVII, paragraph 1, the Agreement entered into force upon deposit of the fourth instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession with the Depositary [the Government of the United States of America]. In accordance with Article XXVII, paragraph 2, after entry into force of the Agreement, with respect to each State or regional economic integration organization that meets the requirements of Article XXVI, the Agreement will enter into force for each State or regional economic integration organization upon deposit of its instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession.