WTO Arbitrator Determines Meaning of "Reasonable Time" to Implement Decision

Earlier today, a World Trade Organization (WTO) arbitrator, Mr. Giorgio Sacerdoti, issued his decision regarding what constitutes a “reasonable period of time” under Article 21.3 of the Dispute Settlement Understanding for the implementation of Dispute Settlement Body recommendations and rulings in the disputes “United States – Certain  Country of Origin Labelling (COOL) Requirements” (DS384 and DS386).  Canada had initiated the matter in 2008 with respect to US labelling requirements on beef and pork from Canada.  The arbitrator determined  that the "reasonable period of time" for the United States to implement the recommendations and rulings of the DSB in these disputes is 10 months from the adoption of the Panel and Appellate Body Reports, or until 23 May 2013.  More information may be found here.

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