This step reflects the EU’s firmly held view that China’s provisional measures on EU brandy are not in line with WTO rules. China has not proven that there is any threat of injury to its brandy industry, nor that there is a causal link between the alleged threat of injury and imports of brandy from the EU. Moreover, China initiated the case based on insufficient evidence, contrary to the standards of WTO law.
By expressing its disagreement with China’s WTO-incompatible measures already at provisional stage, the EU is taking strong early action to protect the interests of its industry and economy.
Background
The Commission has followed this investigation very closely since its initiation and intervened on a number of occasions to express its objections to the questionable nature of China’s allegations and subsequent measures.
This request is the first step in triggering WTO dispute settlement procedures. China now has 10 days to respond to the EU request, with a view to finding a mutually convenient format and date for the consultations. If no satisfactory solution is found, a WTO panel could be asked to decide on the case.
More Information
Quote(s)
The EU takes very seriously any unfair or questionable use of trade defence instruments against any sector of our economy. By requesting consultations with China over its provisional anti-dumping measures on EU brandy, the Commission is following through on its commitment to protect our industry from unfounded accusations and misuse of trade defence measures.
Valdis Dombrovskis, Executive Vice-President and Commissioner for Trade
Source – EU Commission