Türkiye's prohibition on the importation of live cattle

– Specific Trade Concern 604

SUBMISSION BY THE UNITED STATES of america

The following submission, received on 31 March 2025, is the statement made by the United States of America at the 19-21 March 2025 WTO SPS Committee, and is being circulated at the request of the Delegation of the United States of America.

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1.  The United States is concerned that Türkiye's 15 May 2024 prohibition on the importation of live cattle from the United States does not appear to align with the standards, guidelines, and recommendations established by WOAH.

2.  The United States awaits responses to two letters sent to Türkiye, on 15 November 2024 and 20 December 2024, requesting Türkiye's scientific justification for halting live cattle imports from the United States, as outlined in the WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code.

3.  Since May 2024, Türkiye has not provided any scientific justification to the United States. Türkiye also has neglected to notify its restriction on live cattle to the WTO.

4.  The United States is ready to export live cattle, which would benefit both of our countries. In order to do so, we request that Türkiye rescind its measures and resume importation of live US cattle.

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