June 12, 1998 No. 157

MINISTERS WELCOME WTO PANEL REPORT

ON AUSTRALIAN BAN OF CANADIAN SALMON

International Trade Minister Sergio Marchi and Fisheries and Oceans Minister David Anderson welcomed a World Trade Organization (WTO) report that concludes that Australia's ban on the import of certain types of Canadian salmon is inconsistent with its WTO obligations.

The report, released today, recommends that the WTO's Dispute Settlement Body request Australia to bring its measure regarding imports of fresh, chilled and frozen salmon from Canada into conformity with WTO rules.

"This final ruling of the WTO Dispute Settlement Panel has very clearly upheld Canada's case," said Minister Marchi. "This important finding also demonstrates that Canada's trade interests are best defended through a system of fair and equitable rules."

"The decision to lift the ban on the import of certain types of Canadian salmon will provide significant benefits to Canadian fishermen and processors," said Minister Anderson.

Australia's ban was first introduced in 1975. After years of unsuccessful bilateral efforts to resolve the dispute, the WTO Dispute Settlement Body established a panel on April 10, 1997, at Canada's request. Australia still has the right to appeal the WTO ruling.

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For further information, media representatives may contact:

Leslie Swartman

Office of the Minister for International Trade

(613) 992-7332

John Fraser

Office of the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans

(613) 992-3474

Media Relations Office

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade

(613) 995-1874

This document is also available on the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Internet site: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca