The World Trade Organization (WTO) stated today that Mexico had requested consultations with Costa Rica as, allegedly, this country unlawfully imposed a restriction on Mexican avocado imports.
The measures that Mexico considers restrictive are the checks, inspections, and approval procedures for the importation of the fruit.
Mexico also stated that Costa Rica had failed to apply or recognize certain obligations contained in the Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures of the WTO in its internal regulations.
According to Mexico's notification, various measures taken by Costa Rica violate that agreement and the provisions of the 1994 General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).
A request for consultations is the first step in the process of solving trade disputes through the WTO.
Costa Rica has 10 days to answer the request, so the start of consultations should start within 30 calendar days.
The consultation period is 60 days, unless the parties agree to another term.
The idea of the consultations is to give the parties the opportunity to reach an agreement and avoid a lawsuit.
If consultations fail, Mexico may request the establishment of a panel of experts to rule on this case.
Mexico exports about one million tons of avocados to the world per year.
Source: hoylosangeles.com