Skip to main content Accessibility help

We use cookies to distinguish you from other users and to provide you with a better experience on our websites. Close this message to accept cookies or find out how to manage your cookie settings.

Close cookie message
×
  1. Home
  2. Browse subjects
  3. Law
  4. International Trade Law
  5. Content listing

Refine search

Refine search

Access:
Content type:
Publication date:
Apply   From and To filters
Subject: Show more
Journals Show more
Publishers: Show more
Societies Show more
Series: Show more
Collections: Show more

Actions for selected content:

Select all | Deselect all
  • View selected items
  • Export citations
  • Download PDF (zip)
  • Save to Kindle
  • Save to Dropbox
  • Save to Google Drive

Save Search

You can save your searches here and later view and run them again in "My saved searches".

Please provide a title, maximum of 40 characters.
Cancel
×

12383 results in International Trade Law

Page 614 of 620

  • Brazil - Measures Affecting Desiccated Coconut, complaint by the Philippines (WT/DS22): Report of the Appellate Body

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 167-188

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    The Philippines and Brazil appeal from certain issues of law and legal interpretations in the Panel Report, Brazil - Measures Affecting Desiccated Coconut (the “Panel Report”). That Panel was established to consider a complaint by the Philippines against Brazil relating to the countervailing duties imposed by Brazil on imports of desiccated coconut from the Philippines pursuant to Interministerial Ordinance No. 11 (the “Ordinance”) on 18 August 1995.

    The application for initiation of the countervailing duty investigation was filed with the Brazilian authorities on 17 January 1994. The investigation was initiated on 21 June 1994, provisional countervailing duties were imposed on 23 March 1995, and definitive countervailing duties were imposed on 18 August 1995. The Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization (the “WTO Agreement”) entered into force for both parties to this dispute, Brazil and the Philippines, on 1 January 1995, that is, after the application for, and the initiation of, the investigation and prior to the imposition of the provisional and definitive countervailing duties.

    The Panel Report was circulated to Members of the World Trade Organization (the “WTO”) on 17 October 1996. It contains the following conclusions:

  • a. Article VI of GATT 1994 does not constitute applicable law for the purposes of this dispute. As a result, the substance of the Phil- ippines’ claims under that Article, and of its claims under Articles I and II of GATT 1994 which derive from their claims of inconsistency with Article VI of GATT 1994, cannot be considered by this Panel.

  • b. The Agreement on Agriculture does not constitute applicable law for the purposes of this dispute. As a result, the substance of the Philippines’ claims under that Agreement cannot be considered by this Panel.

  • c. The Philippines’ claim regarding Brazil's failure to consult is not within the terms of reference of this Panel and therefore its substance cannot be considered.

    • The Panel made the following recommendation:

    The Panel, having concluded that the substance of the Philippines’ claims are not properly before it, recommends that the Dispute Settlement Body make such a ruling.

  • Canada - Certain Measures Concerning Periodicals, complaint by the United States (WT/DS31): Report of the Appellate Body

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 449-480

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    Canada and the United States appeal from certain issues of law and legal interpretations in the Panel Report, Canada - Certain Measures Concerning Periodicals (the “Panel Report”). The Panel was established to consider a complaint by the United States against Canada concerning three measures: Tariff Code 9958, which prohibits the importation into Canada of certain periodicals, including split-run editions; Part V.1 of the Excise Tax Act, which imposes an excise tax on split-run editions of periodicals; and the application by Canada Post Corporation (“Canada Post”) of commercial “Canadian”, commercial “international” and “funded” publications mail postal rates, the latter through the Publications Assistance Program (the “PAP”) maintained by the Department of Canadian Heritage (“Canadian Heritage”) and Canada Post.

    The Panel Report was circulated to the Members of the World Trade Organization (the “WTO”) on 14 March 1997. It contains the following conclusions:

    (a) Tariff Code 9958 is inconsistent with Article XI:1 of GATT 1994 and cannot be justified under Article XX(d) of GATT 1994; (b) Part V.1 of the Excise Tax Act is inconsistent with Article III:2, first sentence, of GATT 1994; (c) the application by Canada Post of lower ”commercial Canadian” postal rates to domestically-produced periodicals than to imported periodicals, including additional discount options available only to domestic periodicals, is inconsistent with Article III:4 of GATT 1994; but (d) the maintenance of the “funded” rate scheme is justified under Article III:8(b) of GATT 1994.

    The Panel made the following recommendation:

    The Panel recommends that the Dispute Settlement Body request Canada to bring the measures that are found to be inconsistent with GATT 1994 into conformity with its obligations thereunder.

    On 29 April 1997, Canada notified the Dispute Settlement Body (the “DSB”) of its intention to appeal certain issues of law covered in the Panel Report and legal interpretations developed by the Panel, pursuant to paragraph 4 of Article 16 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (the “DSU”), and filed a Notice of Appeal with the Appellate Body, pursuant to Rule 20 of the Working Procedures for Appellate Review (the “Working Procedures”).

  • Japan – Taxes on Alcoholic Beverages, complaints by the European Communities (WT/DS8), Canada (WT/DS10) and the United States (WT/DS11) Award of the Arbitrator under Article 21.3(c) of the DSU

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 3-10

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    On 1 November 1996, the Dispute Settlement Body (the “DSB”) adopted (WT/DSB/M/25) the Appellate Body Report and the Panel Report, as modified by the Appellate Body Report, in Japan - Taxes on Alcoholic Beverages (WT/DS8/11, WT/DS10/11 and WT/DS11/8). As required by Article 21(3) of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (the “DSU”), Japan informed the DSB on 20 November 1996 of its intentions in respect of the implementation of the DSB's recommendations and rulings (WT/DSB/M/26). Japan indicated that it would not be able to implement immediately but only within a “reasonable period of time”. Japan did not propose to the DSB a “reasonable period of time” for the latter's approval as provided for under Article 21(3)(a) of the DSU. It indicated that it would initiate negotiations with the European Communities, the United States and Canada, the other parties to the dispute, on what constitutes “a reasonable period of time”. These negotiations did not succeed, and no mutual agreement within the meaning of Article 21(3)(b) of the DSU was reached. The negotiations with the European Communities did, however, lead to an agreement on an accelerated reduction of the tariff rates on whisky and brandy as compensation for delayed implementation, but this agreement does not prejudge their position on the issue of a “reasonable period of time”.

    In the absence of an agreement under Article 21(3)(b) of the DSU, the United States requested on 24 December 1996, that the “reasonable period of time” should be determined through binding arbitration as is provided for by Article 21(3)(c). After Japan and the United States failed to agree on the appointment of an arbitrator within the ten days envisaged by the note to Article 21(3)(c), the United States requested on 7 January 1997 that the Director-General appoint an arbitrator. Following consultations with the United States and Japan, the Director-General appointed me as arbitrator on 17 January 1997.

    At an organizational meeting on 20 January 1997, it was agreed that all the original parties to the dispute could participate in the arbitration process, notwithstanding that only the United States had requested binding arbitration.

  • United States - Measure Affecting Imports of Woven Wool Shirts and Blouses from India, complaint by India (WT/DS33): Report of the Appellate Body

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 323-342

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    India appeals from certain issues of law and legal interpretations in the Panel Report, United States - Measure Affecting Imports of Woven Wool Shirts and Blouses from India, WT/DS33/R (the “Panel Report”). That Panel was established on 17 April 1996 to consider a complaint by India against the United States relating to a transitional safeguard restraint imposed on imports of woven wool shirts and blouses (category 440) from India.

    The measure was imposed by the United States on 14 July 1995 after bilateral consultations with India in April and June 1995 did not result in a mutually- agreed solution. The restraint was effective as from 18 April 1995 for one year and was later extended through 17 April 1997. The United States took this transitional safeguard action pursuant to Article 6 of the Agreement on Textiles and Clothing (the “ATC”). As required by Article 6.10 of the ATC, the United States referred the matter to the Textiles Monitoring Body (the “TMB”), which concluded and confirmed upon review that the transitional safeguard action in this case was imposed in accordance with the requirements of the ATC. The TMB found that “actual threat of serious damage had been demonstrated” and that “this actual threat could be attributed to the sharp and substantial increase in imports from India”. At India's request, the Dispute Settlement Body (the “DSB”) established a panel (the “Panel”) to examine the legality of the United States’ transitional safeguard measure.

    After the release of the interim report of the Panel, the United States announced that it would withdraw the transitional safeguard measure, effective as of 22 November 1996, “due to a steady decline in imports of woven wool shirts and blouses from India and the adjustment of the industry”. Nevertheless, India requested that the Panel continue its work and produce a comprehensive report on the dispute. The Panel Report in United States - Measure Affecting Imports of Woven Wool Shirts and Blouses from India was circulated to the Members of the World Trade Organization (the “WTO”) on 6 January 1997. The Panel Report contains the following conclusions and recommendations:

    We conclude that the US restraint applied as of 18 April 1995 on imports of woven wool shirts and blouses, category 440, from India and its extensions violated the provisions of Articles 2 and 6 of the ATC.

Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
  • Volume 1
  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000
  • The Dispute Settlement Reports of the World Trade Organization (WTO) include Panel and Appellate Body reports, as well as arbitration awards, in disputes concerning the rights and obligations of WTO members under the provisions of the Marrakesh Agreement. These are the authorized paginated reports in English: as such, they are an essential addition to the library of all practising and academic trade lawyers, and will be widely consulted by students taking courses in international economic or trade law. Cases included concern: restrictions on imports of cotton and man-made fibre underwear; desiccated coconut; imports of woven wool shirts and blouses from India; and periodicals. The form of citation recommended by the WTO for this volume is DSR, 1997:I. Cases in this volume are reported in English. Authorised paginated French and Spanish versions are on sale directly from the WTO.

  • United States - Measure Affecting Imports of Woven Wool Shirts and Blouses from India, complaint by India (WT/DS33): Report of the Panel

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 343-448

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    In a communication dated 14 March 1996, India requested that a panel be established at the next meeting of the Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) pursuant to Article XXIII:2 of GATT 1994, Article 6 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU) and Article 8.10 and other relevant provisions of the Agreement on Textiles and Clothing (ATC) (WT/DS33/1). This arose from a restraint introduced by the United States in respect of India's exports of woven wool shirts and blouses (US category 440), under Article 6 of the ATC.

    India noted that the matter had remained unresolved in spite of bilateral consultations between India and the United States held under Article 6.7 of the ATC in April and June 1995; the examination of the matter by the Textiles Monitoring Body (TMB) under Article 6.10 of the ATC in August and September 1995; the communication sent to the TMB under Article 8.10 of the ATC, within one month of the TMB recommendation under Article 6.10 of the ATC, explaining the reasons for India's inability to conform to the TMB recommendations; and the review of the matter by the TMB under Article 8.10 of the ATC in November 1995. Consequently, India considered that it had met all requirements in Article 8.10 of the ATC for direct recourse to Article XXIII:2 of GATT 1994. At its meeting held on 17 April 1996, the DSB established a panel pursuant to the request of India, with standard terms of reference, in accordance with Article 6 of the DSU (WT/DSB/M/14).

    On 27 June 1996, the DSB informed Members that the terms of reference and the composition of the panel (WT/DS33/2) were as follows:

    Terms of Reference

    “To examine, in the light of the relevant provisions of the covered agreements cited by India in document WT/DS/33/1, the matter referred to the DSB by India in that document and to make such findings as will assist the DSB in making the recommendations or in giving the rulings provided for in those agreements.”

    Composition

    Chairman: Mr. Jacques Bourgeois

    Panelists: Mr. Robert Arnott

    Mr. Wilhelm Meier

    Five Members reserved their rights to participate in the Panel proceedings as third parties; namely Canada, the European Communities, Norway, Pakistan and Turkey.

  • United States - Restrictions on Imports of Cotton and Man-made Fibre Underwear, complaint by Costa Rica (WT/DS24): Report of the Appellate Body

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 11-30

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION: FACTUAL BACKGROUND AND STATEMENT OF THE APPEAL

    This is an appeal by Costa Rica from certain issues of law and legal interpretations set out in the Panel Report, United States - Restrictions on Imports of Cotton and Man-made Fibre Underwear (the “Panel Report”). That Panel (the “Panel”) had been established to consider a complaint by Costa Rica relating to a transitional safeguard measure imposed by the United States on imports of cotton and man-made fibre underwear from Costa Rica under Article 6 of the Agreement on Textiles and Clothing (“ATC”).

    The factual background essential to understanding this appeal, may be sketched quickly.

    On 27 March 1995, the United States requested consultations with Costa Rica on trade in cotton and man-made underwear under Article 6.7 of the ATC. At the same time, the United States provided Costa Rica with a “Statement of Serious Damage”, dated March 1995 (the “March Statement”), on the basis of which the United States proposed the introduction of a restraint on imports of underwear from Costa Rica. Notice of the request for consultations, the proposed restraint and the proposed restraint level was published in the United States Federal Register on 21 April 1995. The consultations were held but the United States and Costa Rica failed to negotiate a mutually acceptable settlement during these consultations. The United States then invoked Article 6.10 of the ATC, and intro-duced a transitional safeguard measure in respect of cotton and man-made fibre underwear imports from Costa Rica on 23 June 1995. The measure was, by its terms, to be valid for a period of 12 months, effective as of 27 March 1995 (i.e., the date of the request for consultations).

    At the same time, the United States referred the matter to the Textiles Monitoring Body (the “TMB”). The TMB found that the United States had failed to demonstrate serious damage to the United States domestic industry. However, the TMB did not reach a consensus on the existence of an actual threat of serious damage. The TMB similarly failed to make any findings on the effective date of application of the United States restraint. Accordingly, the TMB recommended that the United States and Costa Rica hold further consultations with a view to resolving the matter.

  • Brazil - Measures Affecting Desiccated Coconut, complaint by the Philippines (WT/DS22): Report of the Panel

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 189-322

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    On 27 November 1995, the Philippines requested consultations with Brazil under Article XXIII:1 of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (“GATT 1994”) concerning the countervailing duty imposed by Brazil on imports of desiccated coconut from the Philippines. (WT/DS22/1/Rev.1).

    On 8 December 1995, Brazil replied that it was prepared to enter into consultations with the Philippines as long as it was mutually understood that those consultations would be undertaken exclusively under the 1979 Agreement on Interpretation and Application of Articles VI, XVI and XXIII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (“Tokyo Round SCM Code”), under the auspices of which Brazil conducted the coconut subsidies investigations and imposed the countervailing duties.

    On 13 December 1995, the Philippines replied that Brazil's response constituted a refusal of the request for consultations under Article XXIII:1.

    Taking the view that Brazil had failed to enter into consultations within the period provided for in the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (“DSU”), the Philippines, on 17 January 1996, requested the establishment of a Panel with standard terms of reference, pursuant to Article XXIII:2 of GATT 1994 and Articles 4.3 and 6 of the DSU. (WT/DS22/2).

    At Brazil's request, a copy of document SCM/193, on the issue of the countervailing duties in question, was circulated to the Dispute Settlement Body (“DSB”). In that document, Brazil stated its view that the Tokyo Round SCM Code was the only legal framework applicable to the dispute. Brazil also indicated its understanding that the DSB was not the appropriate forum for the discussion on the dispute with the Philippines, and that document SCM/193 was circulated for information purposes only and without prejudice to its rights under the Tokyo Round SCM Code and to its position on the applicable law. (WT/DS22/3, attached as Annex 1).

    At the 31 January 1996 meeting of the DSB, the Philippines stated that, for reasons mutually agreed to, the Philippines had not objected to postponing consideration of its request for establishment of a panel, but would make a statement at the next meeting of the DSB when this request would be considered.

  • Canada - Certain Measures Concerning Periodicals, complaint by the United States (WT/DS31): Report of the Panel

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 481-587

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    On 11 March 1996, the United States requested Canada to hold consultations pursuant to Article 4 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU) and Article XXIII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (GATT 1994) on certain measures maintained by Canada, namely, measures prohibiting or restricting the importation into Canada of certain periodicals; tax treatment of so-called “split-run” periodicals; and the application of favourable postage rates to certain Canadian periodicals (WT/DS31/1). These consultations were held on 10 April 1996. As they did not result in a satisfactory adjustment of the matter, the United States, in a communication dated 24 May 1996, requested the Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) to establish a panel to examine the matter (WT/DS31/2).

    The DSB, at its meeting on 19 June 1996, established a panel on the matter in accordance with Article 6 of the DSU. In document WT/DS31/3, the Secretariat reported that the Panel would have the following standard terms of reference and composition:

    “To examine, in the light of the relevant provisions of the covered agreements cited by the United States in document WT/DS31/2, the matter referred to the DSB by the United States in that document and to make such findings as will assist the DSB in making the recommendations or in giving the rulings provided for in those agreements”.

    On 25 July 1996, the Panel was constituted with the following composition:

    Chairman: Mr. Lars Anell

    Panelists: Mr. Victor Luiz do Prado

    Mr. Michael Reiterer

    No Members reserved their rights to participate in the Panel proceedings as a third party.

    The Panel met with the parties to the dispute on 11 October 1996 and 14- 15 November 1996. The Panel submitted its report to the parties on 21 February 1997.

    FACTUAL ASPECTS

    This Panel concerns three Canadian measures: Tariff Code 9958 which prohibits the importation into Canada of certain periodicals; Part V.I of the Excise Tax Act, as enacted by Bill C-103 of 15 December 1995, which imposes an excise tax on certain “split-run” periodicals; and the application of certain postal rates to certain Canadian periodicals including through actions of Canada Post Corporation and the Department of Canadian Heritage.

  • United States - Restrictions on Imports of Cotton and Man-made Fibre Underwear, complaint by Costa Rica (WT/DS24): Report of the Panel

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1997
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    11 May 2000, pp 31-166

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    On 22 December 1995, Costa Rica requested consultations with the United States under Article 4 and other relevant provisions of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU), Article XXIII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (GATT 1994) and the corresponding provisions of the Agreement on Textiles and Clothing (ATC) (WT/DS24/1). Consultations were held on 18 January and 1 February 1996, however, no mutually satisfactory solution was reached. On 22 February 1996, Costa Rica requested the establishment of a panel (WT/DS24/2) which was considered by the DSB at its meeting on 5 March 1996 (WT/DSB/M/12). The Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) accordingly agreed to establish a panel with standard terms of reference in accordance with Article 6 of the DSU.

    On 19 April 1996, the DSB was informed that the terms of reference and the composition of the Panel (WT/DS24/3) were as follows:

    Terms of Reference

    “To examine, in the light of the relevant provisions of the covered agreements cited by Costa Rica in document WT/DS24/2, the matter referred to the DSB by Costa Rica in that document and to make such findings as will assist the DSB in making the recommendations or in giving the rulings provided for in those agreements”.

    Composition

    Chairman: Mr. Thomas Cottier

    Panelists: Mr. Martin Harvey

    Mr. Johannes Human

    The Panel heard the parties to the dispute on 24-25 June 1996 and 29 July 1996. The Panel also met with the parties on 15 October 1996 to review aspects of the interim report, at the request of the parties. The Panel submitted its complete findings and conclusions to the parties to the dispute on 25 October 1996.

    FACTUAL ASPECTS

    Outward Processing Regime: “807 Trade” and “Guaranteed Access Levels”

    In the course of the last six years, there has been a significant change in the US cotton and man-made fibre underwear manufacturing industry which has significantly switched from producing and assembling underwear domestically to producing components in the United States for assembly in other countries and subsequent return to the same enterprises in the United States for marketing.

Dispute Settlement Reports 1996
  • Volume 1
  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    02 March 2000
  • The Dispute Settlement Reports of the World Trade Organization (WTO) include Panel and Appellate Body reports, as well as arbitration awards, in disputes concerning the rights and obligations of WTO members under the provisions of the Marrakesh Agreement. These are the authorized paginated reports in English: as such, they are an essential addition to the library of all practising and academic trade lawyers, and will be widely consulted by students taking courses in international economic or trade law. Cases in this volume include: US - Standards for Reformulated and Conventional Gasoline; European Communities - Trade Description of Scallops; and Japan - Taxes on Alcoholic Beverages. The form of citation recommended by the WTO for this volume is DSR, 1996:I. Cases in this volume are reported in English. Authorised paginated French and Spanish versions are on sale directly from the WTO.

  • European Communities – Trade Description of Scallops, requests by Canada (WT/DS7), Peru (WT/DS12) and Chile (WT/DS14): Report of the Panel (Request by Canada)

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1996
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    02 March 2000, pp 89-92

  • Summary

    On 19 May 1995, the Government of Canada requested consultations with the European Communities (“EC”) concerning French Order NOR MERP9300051A of 22 March 1993 and its amendments, relating to the official names and permitted trade descriptions of scallops in France. This request was made pursuant to Article XXII:1 of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (“GATT 1994”), Article 14.1 of the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (“TBT Agreement”), and Article 4 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (“DSU”). In accordance with Article 4 of the DSU, the request was circulated to Members of the World Trade Organization (“WTO”) on 24 May 1995 (WT/DS7/1).

    Pursuant to Article 4.11 of the DSU, Chile on 31 May 1995 (WT/DS7/2), and Iceland (WT/DS7/3), Japan (WT/DS7/4) and Peru (WT/DS7/5) on 2 June 1995, requested to be joined in the consultations requested by Canada. On 23 June 1995, the EC informed the Dispute Settlement Body (“DSB”) that it had accepted these requests (WT/DS7/6). Consultations were held in Geneva on 19 June 1995.

    Consultations failed to settle the dispute and, on 7 July 1995, Canada requested the DSB to establish a panel, at its next meeting, pursuant to Article XXIII of GATT 1994, Article 14 of the TBT Agreement and Articles 4 and 6 of the DSU (WT/DS7/7 and Corr.1). Canada requested that the panel consider and find that the French Order and subsequent amendments are:

  • (a) inconsistent with Article 2 of the TBT Agreement;

  • (b) inconsistent with Articles I and III of GATT 1994; and

  • (c) nullifying and impairing benefits accruing to Canada under the WTO Agreement.

    • On 19 July 1995, pursuant to the request made by Canada, the DSB established a panel with standard terms of reference. The terms of reference of the Panel are the following:

    “To examine, in the light of the relevant provisions of the covered agreements cited by Canada in document WT/DS7/7, the matter referred to the DSB by Canada in that document and to make such findings as will assist the DSB in making the recommendations or in giving the rulings provided for in those agreements”.

    Australia, Chile, Iceland, Japan, Peru and the United States reserved their rights to participate in the Panel proceedings as third parties.

  • Japan – Taxes on Alcoholic Beverages, complaints by the European Communities (WT/DS8), Canada (WT/DS10) and the United States (WT/DS11): Report of the Panel

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1996
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    02 March 2000, pp 125-284

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    On 21 June 1995, the European Communities (“the Community”) requested consultations with Japan under Article XXII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (“GATT”) concerning the internal taxes levied by Japan on certain alcoholic beverages pursuant to the Japan's Liquor Tax Law (WT/DS8/1). On 7 July 1995, pursuant to Article 4.11 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (“DSU”), the United States (WT/DS8/2) and Canada (WT/DS8/3) requested to be joined in these consultations. Japan accepted these requests on 19 July 1995 (WT/DS8/4).

    On 7 July 1995, Canada requested consultations with Japan under Article XXII of GATT 1994 concerning certain Japanese liquor taxation laws (WT/DS10/1). On 17 July 1995, pursuant to Article 4.11 of the DSU, the United States (WT/DS10/2) and the Community (WT/DS10/3) requested to be joined in these consultations. Japan accepted these requests on 19 July 1995 (WT/DS10/4).

    On 7 July 1995, the United States requested consultations with Japan under Article XXIII of GATT 1994 regarding internal taxes imposed by Japan on certain alcoholic beverages pursuant to the Liquor Tax Law (WT/DS11/1).

    On 20 July 1995, the Community, Canada and the United States jointly held consultations with Japan with a view to reaching a mutually satisfactory resolution of the matter, but they were unable to reach such a resolution. On 21 July 1995, the United States and Japan consulted under Article XXIII:1, but they did not reach a mutually acceptable resolution of the matter.

    On 14 September 1995, pursuant to Article XXIII:2 of GATT 1994 and Article 6 of the DSU, the Community requested the Dispute Settlement Body (“DSB”) to establish a panel with standard terms of reference (WT/DS8/5). The Community claimed that:

    ’a) Japan had acted inconsistently with Article III:2, first sentence, of GATT 1994 by applying a higher tax rate on the category of ‘spirits’ than on each of the two sub-categories of shochu, thereby nullifying or impairing the benefits accrued to the European Communities under GATT 1994; and that

    b) Japan has acted inconsistently with Article III:2, second sentence, of GATT 1994 by applying a higher tax rate on the category of ‘whisky/brandy’ and on the category of ‘liqueurs’ than on each of the two sub-categories of shochu, thereby nullifying or impairing the benefits accrued to the European Communities under GATT 1994.

  • European Communities – Trade Description of Scallops, requests by Canada (WT/DS7), Peru (WT/DS12) and Chile (WT/DS14): Report of the Panel (Request by Peru and Chile)

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1996
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    02 March 2000, pp 93-96

  • Summary

    On 18 July 1995, the Government of Peru to the WTO requested consultations with the European Communities (“EC”) concerning French Order NOR MERP9300051A of 22 March 1993 and its amendments, relating to the official names and permitted trade descriptions of scallops in France. This request was made pursuant to Article XXII:1 of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 (“GATT 1994”), Article 14.1 of the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (“TBT Agreement”), and Article 4 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (“DSU”). In accordance with Article 4 of the DSU, the request was circulated to Members of the World Trade Organization (“WTO”) on 25 July 1995 (WT/DS12/1).

    Pursuant to Article 4.11 of the DSU, on 27 July 1995, Chile (WT/DS12/2) and Canada (WT/DS12/3) requested to be joined in the consultations initiated by Peru. On 31 July 1995, the EC informed the Dispute Settlement Body (“DSB”) that it had accepted these requests (WT/DS12/4). Consultations were held on 10 August 1995.

    These consultations failed to settle the dispute and, on 18 September 1995, Peru requested the DSB to establish a panel, at its next meeting, pursuant to Article XXIII of GATT 1994, Article 14 of the TBT Agreement and Articles 4 and 6 of the DSU (WT/DS12/7). Peru requested that the panel consider and find that the French Order and subsequent amendments are:

  • (a) inconsistent with Articles 2 and 12 of the TBT Agreement;

  • (b) inconsistent with Articles I and III of GATT 1994; and

  • (c) nullifying and impairing benefits accruing to Peru under the WTO Agreement.

    • On 24 July 1995, the Government of Chile requested consultations with the EC concerning the same French Order referred to above in paragraph 1. This request was made pursuant to Article XXII:1 of GATT 1994, Article 14.1 of the TBT Agreement and Article 4 of the DSU. In accordance with Article 4 of the DSU, the request was circulated to Members of the WTO on 31 July 1995 (WT/DS14/1).

    Pursuant to Article 4.11 of the DSU, Canada on 2 August 1995 (WT/DS14/2), Peru on 11 August 1995 (WT/DS14/3) and Japan on 10 August 1995 (WT/DS14/4) requested to be joined in the consultations initiated by Chile. The EC accepted these requests and consultations were held on 10 August 1995, jointly with the consultations referred to in paragraph 2.

  • Japan – Taxes on Alcoholic Beverages, complaints by the European Communities (WT/DS8), Canada (WT/DS10) and the United States (WT/DS11): Report of the Appellate Body

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1996
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    02 March 2000, pp 97-124

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTION

    Japan and the United States appeal from certain issues of law and legal interpretations in the Panel Report, Japan - Taxes on Alcoholic Beverages (the “Panel Report”). That Panel (the “Panel”) was established to consider complaints by the European Communities, Canada and the United States against Japan relating to the Japanese Liquor Tax Law (Shuzeiho), Law No. 6 of 1953 as amended (the “Liquor Tax Law”).

    The Panel Report was circulated to the Members of the World Trade Organization (the “WTO”) on 11 July 1996. It contains the following conclusions:

    (i) Shochu and vodka are like products and Japan, by taxing the latter in excess of the former, is in violation of its obligation under Article III:2, first sentence, of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994.

    (ii) Shochu, whisky, brandy, rum, gin, genever, and liqueurs are “directly competitive or substitutable products” and Japan, by not taxing them similarly, is in violation of its obligation under Article III:2, second sentence, of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994.

    The Panel made the following recommendations:

    The Panel recommends that the Dispute Settlement Body request Japan to bring the Liquor Tax Law into conformity with its obligations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994.

    On 8 August 1996, Japan notified the Dispute Settlement Body of the WTO of its decision to appeal certain issues of law covered in the Panel Report and legal interpretations developed by the Panel, pursuant to paragraph 4 of Article 16 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (the “DSU”) and filed a Notice of Appeal with the Appellate Body, pursuant to Rule 20 of the Working Procedures for Appellate Review (the “Working Procedures”). On 19 August 1996, Japan filed an appellant's submission. On 23 August 1996, the United States filed an appellant's submission pursuant to Rule 23(1) of the Working Procedures. The European Communities, Canada and the United States submitted appellees’ submissions pursuant to Rule 22 of the Working Procedures, on 2 September 1996. That same day, Japan submitted an appellee's submission pursuant to Rule 23(3) of the Working Procedures.

  • United States – Standards for Reformulated and Conventional Gasoline, complaints by Venezuela (WT/DS2) and Brazil (WT/DS4): Report of the Appellate Body

  • Edited by World Trade Organization
  • Book:
    Dispute Settlement Reports 1996
    Published online:
    22 December 2017
    Print publication:
    02 March 2000, pp 3-28

  • Summary

    INTRODUCTORY

    The United States appeals from certain conclusions on issues of law and certain legal interpretations contained in the Panel Report, United States - Standards for Reformulated and Conventional Gasoline, WT/DS2/R, 29 January 1996 (the “Panel Report”). That Panel had been established to consider a dispute between the United States, on the one hand, and Venezuela, later joined by Brazil, on the other. The dispute related to the implementation by the United States of its domestic legislation known as the Clean Air Act of 1990 (the “CAA”) and, more specifically, to the regulation enacted by the United States’ Environmental Protection Agency (the “EPA”) pursuant to that Act, to control toxic and other pollution caused by the combustion of gasoline manufactured in or imported into the United States. This regulation is formally entitled “Regulation of Fuels and Fuel Additives - Standards for Reformulated and Conventional Gasoline”, Part 80 of Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, and is commonly referred to as the Gasoline Rule.

    Procedural Matters

    On 21 February 1996, the United States notified the Dispute Settlement Body of its decision to appeal certain conclusions on issues of law and legal interpretations in the Panel Report pursuant to Article 16 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (the “DSU”) and simultaneously filed a Notice of Appeal with the Appellate Body, pursuant to Rule 20 of the Working Procedures for Appellate Review (the “Working Procedures”). Thereafter, on 4 March 1996, the United States filed its Submission as Appellant. Venezuela in turn filed, on 18 March 1996, its Appellee's Submission; Brazil filed on the same day its Appellee's Submission. The third participants followed, the European Communities and Norway filing Submissions, on 18 March 1996.

    The complete record of the Panel proceedings was duly transmitted to the Appellate Body.

    The oral hearing contemplated by Rule 27 of the Working Procedures was held on 27 and 28 March 1996. At the hearing, oral arguments were made respectively by the participants and the third participants. Questions were put to them by the Members of the Appellate Body hearing the appeal. Most of these questions were answered orally, and some were responded to in writing with the responses being furnished both to the Appellate Body and the other participants and third participants.

Page 614 of 620