China – Measures Concerning the Importation of Canola Seed from Canada

SUSPENSION OF PANEL WORK

Communication from the Panel

The following communication, dated 30 August 2022, was received from the Chairperson of the Panel with the request that it be circulated to the Dispute Settlement Body.

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In a letter dated 25 August 2022, Canada requested that the Panel suspend its work on this dispute pursuant to Article 12.12 of the Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU). On 29 August 2022, China stated that it welcomed Canada's request.

The Panel has agreed to Canada's request, and has suspended its work effective Tuesday, 30 August 2022.

We recall that Article 12.12 of the DSU provides that the Panel may suspend its work at any time at the request of the complaining party for a period not to exceed 12 months. This provision also indicates that if the work of the Panel has been suspended for more than 12 months, the authority for establishment of the Panel shall lapse.

I would be grateful if you would circulate this letter to the DSB.