The European Commission has expressed regret over the request for a WTO panel on GMOs from Argentina, Canada and the US for a WTO panel on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). "We have been in what we found a rather constructive dialogue with Argentina, Canada and the US on this issue," said EU trade commissioner Pascal Lamy.
"We regret this move to an unnecessary litigation. The EU's regulatory system for GMOs is clear, transparent, reasonable and non-discriminatory. We are confident that the WTO will confirm that the EU fully respects its obligations."
David Byrne, EU commissioner for health and consumer protection said: "Only a month ago we updated our regulatory system on GMOs in line with the latest scientific and international developments. Clear labelling and traceability rules are essential to help restore consumer confidence in GMO's in Europe."
David Byrne recalled that it is the lack of consumer demand for GM-products that accounts for the low sales of GMOs in the EU market. "Unless consumers see that the authorisation process is up to date and takes into account all legitimate concerns, consumers will continue to remain sceptical of GM products."
EU commissioner for the environment Margot Wallström said: "There should be no doubt that it is not our intention to create trade barriers. But my concern is that this request will muddy the waters of the debate in Europe.
"We have to create confidence among citizens for GMOs and allow them to choose - and this is what our new legislative framework is designed to do. The EU stance on GMOs is in line with WTO rules."
The EU remains convinced that open dialogue on the issue is still possible, and therefore regrets steps to establish a panel. For more information on this issue, click here.