Dear JPA Members:

On Monday, the World Trade Organization (WTO) ruled that Canada and Mexico may impose retaliatory tariffs of up to $782 million and $227 million, respectively, on imported U.S products in response to American country-of-origin labeling rules for meat (COOL). According to JPA's International Trade Counsel, Paul Rosenthal at Kelley Drye & Warren LLP, it is still not clear what this means for the juice industry or whether juice products could be the subject of retaliation. Mr. Rosenthal advised JPA Staff that he believes the situation will be resolved before retaliatory duties are put into effect.

In the wake of Monday's WTO announcement, came the urgent calls for the U.S to repeal COOL. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman, Pat Roberts (R-KS) said he "will continue to look for all legislative opportunities to repeal COOL,” while Senate Agriculture Committee ranking member Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), stated that it is "critical" to find a solution by the end of the year and appeared to support legislation to repeal the program, despite previously advocating for a voluntary COOL option.

JPA Staff will continue to monitor this issue and keep you apprised of developments. Please contact us if you have any questions.

Regards,

JPA Staff