From the WTO:
Nigeria announced its intention to request a mediation process regarding Mexico’s import measures on hibiscus flowers.
According to Nigeria, Mexico requires verification of plant health certificates for consignments of hibiscus flowers, a plant commonly used in beverages, resulting in delays of up to six weeks. Mexico, in response, says that the validation requirement is due to its detection of false certification by Nigeria, and it expects to work closely with the Nigerian authorities to find a solution. Nigeria intends to request the "good offices" of the chairperson of the committee, Mr Felipe Hees of Brazil, to assist in resolving the issue.
WTO members agreed a new procedure (document G/SPS/61) in July 2014 to help members settle their differences on food safety and animal and plant health measures. The mediation process provides a new tool for resolving differences on specific trade concerns, while avoiding a more complicated legal challenge under the WTO’s dispute settlement system. As required by the new procedure, Nigeria needs to submit a written request for mediation, which Mexico can accept or reject within 30 days.
Will this mediation process work? Can it help alleviate the overload in WTO dispute settlement going on right now?
