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U.S. Blocks Request for WTO Panel

The U.S. has blocked the requests of Canada and Mexico for a World Trade Organization dispute settlement panel regarding country-of-origin labeling. Under WTO rules the plaintiff in a dispute can reject the first request for a panel. But the requests are expected to go forward to the next meeting of the panel next month. The U.S. can not block them again.

Canada and Mexico say COOL rules are damaging North American trade. According to Canada COOL is discouraging U.S. retailers, processors, feedlots and producers from buying Canadian livestock and meat, which is having a significant impact on beef, pork and cattle exporters. Mexico said its exporters are also suffering from lower prices and uncertainty as a result of COOL. The U.S. says it believes the new labeling requirements are in line with WTO rules.