Pork Industry Disappointed to learn of U.S. Decision to Appeal WTO Decision on COOL

Dec 04, 2014

Ottawa, ON -The Canadian Pork industry is disappointed to learn the United States has decided to appeal a World Trade Organization panel decision that struck down discriminatory and trade distorting elements of the U.S. Country of Origin Labelling (COOL) legislation as it applies to imported livestock.

"COOL increases costs and creates inefficiencies without improving consumer information," stated the Canadian Pork Council's Chair, Jean-Guy Vincent."An integrated North American market is more competitive and sustainable for all producers in the long run, and allows all of us to be more competitive globally."

The Canadian Pork Council worked in collaboration with the Canadian Cattlemen's Association to provide the analysis to support the government's efforts to establish that important elements of COOL are not consistent with WTO rules.The WTO Compliance Panel confirmed that the legislation restricted market access and is a technical barrier to the movement of live swine into the U.S. market.

"Justice delayed is Justice denied, and stalling and totally inadequate responses have already delayed enough. Further appeals which only delay the inevitable, negate the WTO requirement to conduct disputes in good faith," added Mr Vincent.
The CPC serves as the national voice for hog producers in Canada. A federation of nine provincial pork industry associations, our organization's purpose is to play a leadership role in achieving and maintaining a dynamic and prosperous Canadian pork sector.

Source: CPC

Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.