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 2 July 2025, is the statement made by the United States of America at the 18-19 June 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 continues to be concerned that Türkiye's 15 May 2024 prohibition on the importation of live cattle from the United States does not align with the standards, guidelines, and recommendations established by WOAH.

2.  Since May 2024, Türkiye has not provided any scientific justification for the prohibition in response to requests from the United States. Türkiye also has neglected to notify its restriction on live cattle to the WTO.

3.  The US Department of Agriculture has made appreciable efforts to help remove this restriction by providing timely responses to Türkiye's questions on the issue of H5N1 in US cattle and by extending an invitation for Türkiye to visit laboratory and dairy-related sites in the United States. Regrettably, Türkiye has not responded to these efforts.

4.  The United States stands ready to collaborate with Türkiye on a sensible, science-based approach to re-opening the market and sending high-quality cattle to Türkiye.

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