WTO COOL Dispute Moves Ahead

(Portage Online)

It’s another step forward in Canada’s case against American Country-Of-Origin Labelling legislation.

The World Trade Organization has appointed three members to a panel to review whether the U.S. labelling requirements violate international trade rules. Both Canada and Mexico say the laws restrict market access and act as a technical barrier to trade. Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz welcomed the creation of the dispute panel. He says Canada has a strong case.

“We know we have the data on our side to prove there’s been economic harm,” Ritz says. “We’re disappointed that the Americans continue moving ahead with this as opposed to taking a good, educated look.” Read more here.