Panel established to examine Canada's measures on wheat and grain

DS276: Canada — Measures relating to exports of wheat and treatment of imported grain

The United States requested a panel for the second time to examine Canada's measures relating to wheat and grain. The US claimed that these measures were violating GATT 1994 and the Agreement on TRIMS (Trade-Related Investment Measures). Canada maintained that its grain sector and transportation policies were fully consistent with WTO rules.

A panel was established, and Chile, Chinese Taipei, EC, Japan and Mexico reserved their third-party rights.


DS267: United States — Subsidies on upland cotton

At its previous meeting on 18 March 2003, the Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) had established a panel at the request of Brazil. Brazil had also requested the DSB to initiate the information-gathering procedures under Annex V of the Subsidies Agreement. According to these procedures, the DSB is required to designate a representative to serve as a facilitator.

At today's meeting, the DSB was expected to designate a representative. However, the Chairman informed Members that he had been consulting with the parties and that he was not in a position to make a proposal. The DSB agreed to suspend the meeting on this agenda item to allow the Chairman to continue his consultations with the parties. The meeting would be reconvened as soon as the parties had reached an agreement.

Next meeting

The next meeting of the DSB will take place on 15 April 2003.