Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) is deeply disappointed with the United States government’s refusal to comply with a World Trade Organization (WTO) ruling on U.S. mandatory Country of Original Labeling (COOL).
“The U.S. government has not taken any steps to stop this discriminatory trade practice and live up to its trade obligations,” said Trevor Atchison, MBP president. “In fact, its proposed ‘solution’ will make the situation worse and cost Canada’s beef industry more.”
The U.S. had until today to comply with a November 2011 WTO ruling which found that the U.S. labeling legislation discriminates against Canadian livestock. Mandatory COOL has cost the Canadian beef industry between $25 and $40 per head, or about $640 million annually. This cost will likely rise because of the new labeling requirements being imposed by the U.S government.
“Our governments and our industry have invested substantial resources in trying to resolve this matter without retaliation, to no avail,” said Atchison. “But Canada must protect itself if the U.S. refuses to comply with international trade law.”
MBP joins other stakeholders in asking the Canadian government to swiftly publish a list of retaliation options. Manitoba has lost valuable economic opportunities and governments and industry can not rest until the issue is resolved.
“I find it ironic that 10 years after BSE, the Canadian beef industry has been making great strides in restoring market access around the globe, yet our largest trading partner is engaging in protectionist tactics,” added Atchison. “This is simply unacceptable and it must stop now.”
Throughout the fight on mandatory COOL, both Federal Agriculture Minister, Hon. Gerry Ritz, and Manitoba’s Agriculture Minister, Hon. Ron Kostyshyn, have been solidly behind the beef industry and beef producers. Producers will need to see this support continue until free and fair trade is restored to North America.
