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U.S. Moves to Block China's Panel Request

The United States has moved to block China's request for the formation of a World Trade Organization panel to study the U.S. ban on Chinese imports of poultry. According to Reuters Beijing argues the move violates WTO rules. At issue is the U.S. Omnibus Appropriations Act for 2009, which urges that no funds be spent on facilitating Chinese chicken imports. China wants the panel approved by the end of July.

Reportedly, China's WTO delegation told the dispute body that while violating various WTO rules, the measure has severely undermined the stable development of China-U.S. trade on poultry, and damaged the lawful rights and interests of China's poultry industry.

The U.S. team reportedly said the United States places great importance on ensuring that its measures relating to food safety are based on science and in compliance with U.S. obligations under the WTO Agreement.