The United States has requested consultations with India under the World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement system concerning India’s prohibition on certain American agricultural exports.The ban includes poultry meat and chicken eggs. India claims the trade ban is aimed at preventing avian influenza, but according to the U.S. Trade Representative’s office it has not provided scientific evidence in line with international standards on avian-influenza control.

U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk says – India’s ban on U.S. poultry is clearly a case of disguising trade restrictions by invoking unjustified animal health concerns. The United States is the world’s leader in agricultural safety and we are confident the WTO will confirm that India’s ban is unjustified. Kirk notes that – opening India’s market to American farmers will promote jobs here at home, while also providing Indian consumers with access to high quality, safe U.S. products.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says – over the last few years, the United States has repeatedly asked India to justify its claim that a ban on poultry products from the United States is necessary. However, to date, India has not provided valid, scientifically-based justification for the import restrictions. The Secretary adds – I am hopeful for a swift resolution that allows Indian consumers access to safe, high-quality U.S. poultry and poultry products, and restores the economic opportunities our American farmers have earned.

Courtesy: NAFB News