WTO Decision on COOL Good For Canadian Livestock Producers

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With the recent ruling by the World Trade Organization declaring elements of the U.S. Country Of Origin Labelling program to be unfair, Canadian livestock producers feel that the first steps have been made in restoring exports lost when the program began. While Canadian producers applaud the move, there is an underlying skepticism that this decision may not make much of a difference.

Although some would argue that COOL has been harder on the pork industry than the cattle industry, neither livestock segment has enjoyed the US labelling law.

I spoke with Harry Siemens of SiemensSays.com about the decision, the impact it’s had on Canadian producers as well as what’s needed to get exports back to pre-COOL levels from his vantage point.

If you cannot see the embedded video below click here.

One of the interesting outcomes of the WTO decision is whether it will stick. In the past, the WTO has recieved ample criticism for not having teeth. The US can still appeal which may slow this down but the reality is that on the surface is a victory for Canada in trade negotiations.  As a Canadian livestock producer just enjoy it, for the time being.

 

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