The Manitoba Pork Council (MPC) is very pleased with the June 29, 2012, decision by the World Trade Organization (WTO) Appellate Body regarding mandatory Country of Origin Labeling (COOL). The Appellate Body confirmed the WTO Dispute Panel decision of November 2011 that the U.S. COOL legislation discriminates against Canadian livestock in the U.S. market and is inconsistent with U.S. trade obligations. Upholding the ruling is a victory for the pork industry in Canada.
This report is not subject to further appeals.
Since its implementation in 2008, COOL has had a direct impact of at least 1.4 billion on Canadian hog exports to the U.S. by shipping supply back into Canada from traditional export markets. Canadian hog producers have suffered additional serious price suppression on every animal sold.
Karl Kynoch, Chair of Manitoba Pork Council confirms the legislation has caused much damage to pork producers in Canada and the U.S. and further stated the sooner the issue now gets resolved, the sooner pork producers can restore key trade relationships between Canada and the U.S.
“This is good news for producers on both sides of the border as it will allow producers to restore the business agreements in raising hogs that we once had in this integrated North American market. We’re now asking the U.S. to respect its international trade obligations and comply with the outcome of the WTO findings as soon as possible”, said Kynoch.
Kynoch also expressed gratitude for the vast combined efforts of the highly qualified team engaged and committed to end the serious discrimination posed by COOL. “On behalf of Manitoba’s pork producers, we wish to extend our thanks to the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, the Canadian Pork Council and the Government of Canada – specifically our International Trade Minister Ed Fast and Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and their officials for the tremendous efforts and dedication put forth in this WTO case”, said Kynoch. “This is a joint victory for all of us.”
