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ASA Presses Congress to Work Toward Solution on COOL

Oct 30, 2014

As part of the larger COOL Reform Coalition, ASA sent a letter to members of Congress this morning noting the group's "grave concerns" with the country of origin labeling (COOL) rule deemed by the World Trade Organization (WTO) last week to be in violation of our nation's obligations as part of the WTO. The letter also urges Congress to authorize and direct Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to rescind those elements of the COOL rule that violate our international trade obligations. Click here to read entire letter.

Of the nations that brought the complaint against the U.S. on the COOL rule, Canada has already released a preliminary list of American imports subject to retaliatory tariffs. Mexico has yet to issue such a list, but has a history of implementing such tariffs. It is anticipated that the WTO will adjudicate this matter sometime in early 2015.

For more on the work of ASA within the COOL Reform Coalition, visit www.COOLReform.com. ASA will keep members updated as this issue moves forward.