GOVERNMENT OF SASKATCHEWAN COMMENDS FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ON WTO PANEL REQUEST

The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased the federal government has requested a World Trade Organization (WTO) panel to address the issue of U.S. Country-Of-Origin-Labelling (COOL).

"These blatantly protectionist measures are placing an unwarranted burden on Canadian livestock producers who face an already depressed market outlook," Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud said. "COOL regulations are out-of-step with U.S. trade obligations and we are pleased the federal government has made the WTO request to address this."

"The federal government's request for a panel to address the implications of COOL is a positive step," Minister responsible for Trade Ken Cheveldayoff said. "It is important that the issue be addressed, as it presents a substantial barrier to trade and is punitive to the industry in Saskatchewan."

The Final Rule on COOL was implemented on March 16, 2009. Through this legislation, country of origin information at point of retail is required on most beef, pork, chicken, lamb and goat products, as well as most fruits and vegetables. In the U.S. meat packing industry some packers have either stopped accepting Canadian animals at certain facilities, or are accepting them only on a restricted basis.

The cattle and hog industries in Canada estimate that COOL is costing the Canadian industry $800 million per year.

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For more information, contact:

Jenna Webb
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: jenna.webb@gov.sk.ca