China – Tax Measures Concerning Certain Domestically Produced Aircraft

Request to Join Consultations

Communication from Canada

The following communication, dated 18 December 2015, from the delegation of Canada to the delegation of China, the delegation of the United States 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), the Government of Canada hereby notifies its desire to join the consultations requested by the United States pursuant to Articles 1 and 4 of the DSU and Article XXII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994 with respect to China's measures related to certain aircraft.  The request of the United States is set out in document WT/DS501/1. 

Canada has a substantial trade interest in these proceedings.  Canada is a major producer, exporter, and importer of aircraft and is affected by China’s measures.  China is an important export market for aircraft made in Canada.  Between 2012 and 2014, China was Canada’s second largest export destination for aircraft and Canada was among the top suppliers of aircraft to China.  The measures at issue in this dispute may affect Canada’s exports of aircraft to China.  More generally, these measures have important consequences for international trade in aircraft, as will any resolution of this matter.

As a result of this substantial trade interest, Canada respectfully requests that it be permitted to join the consultations in this dispute.

A copy of this letter is being sent to the Chairman of the Dispute Settlement Body, with a request that it be circulated to Members.

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