Australia – certain measures concerning trademarks,
geographical indications and other plain packaging requirements
applicable to tobacco products and packaging

REQUEST to join CONSULTATIONS

Communication from New Zealand

        The following communication, dated 30 September 2013, from the delegation of New Zealand to the delegation of Australia, the delegation of Indonesia and to the Chairperson of the Dispute Settlement Body, is circulated in accordance with Article 4.11 of the DSU.

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        Pursuant to Article 4.11 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU), New Zealand hereby notifies the Governments of Australia and Indonesia as well as the Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) that it wishes to be joined in the consultations requested by Indonesia in the document circulated to WTO Members on 25 September 2013 entitled "Australia – Certain Measures Concerning Trademarks, Geographical Indications and Other Plain Packaging Requirements Applicable to Tobacco Products and Packaging" (WT/DS467/1, G/TBT/D/46, IP/D/34, G/L/1041).

        New Zealand has a substantial trade interest in the subject of the consultations and a systemic interest in the application and interpretation of the provisions of the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights, the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade, and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994.

        New Zealand looks forward to confirmation of receipt and acceptance of this request and advice regarding the timing and venue for the consultations.  I have further requested that this communication be circulated to the Members of the DSB.