The Gabonese government is taking a calm approach to the United States' recent inquiry at the World Trade Organization (WTO) concerning the country's impending ban on chicken imports. According to Agriculture Minister Pacôme Kossy, Libreville is preparing a response that will be both legal and diplomatic. The ban, set to take effect on January 1, 2027, has prompted the US to seek consultations with Gabon at the WTO.
Minister Kossy emphasized that Gabon is not concerned about the US inquiry, stating that the country is defending its economic interests, sovereignty, and the development of its productive apparatus. He noted that Washington is protecting its commercial interests, while Libreville aims to preserve its economic interests. The minister also clarified that Gabon has not been condemned by the WTO, but rather, the US has initiated an inquiry regarding the announced measure.
The Gabonese government has taken note of the US inquiry during a cabinet meeting held on September 18 in Port-Gentil. With the assistance of an expert on WTO rules, the government is currently drafting its response. Minister Kossy highlighted that Gabon's strategy will rely on flexibilities provided to developing countries, citing Article XVIII of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).
Article XVIII of the GATT allows for mechanisms to protect nascent industries under certain conditions. In Gabon's case, the goal is to promote the emergence and consolidation of a national chicken industry. The government will also draw lessons from the experiences of other African countries, such as Senegal and Cameroon, which have implemented measures to secure their national poultry production.
Minister Kossy stressed that while Gabon can learn from the experiences of other countries, it must consider its unique context and international commitments. He concluded that Gabon is studying all available options under international rules and exercising its rights at the WTO. The minister expressed confidence that Gabon's response will be well-prepared and effective.
The US inquiry at the WTO is a formal step that precedes potential dispute settlement proceedings. Gabon's response will likely focus on justifying its ban on chicken imports as a legitimate measure to protect its domestic industry. The country's experience with the WTO will be closely watched by other developing countries facing similar challenges.
As the deadline for the chicken import ban approaches, Gabon's preparedness and response will be crucial in determining the outcome of the WTO inquiry. The country's ability to balance its international commitments with its development needs will be closely monitored by stakeholders. Minister Kossy's assurance that Gabon is preparing its response "serenely" suggests a high degree of confidence in the country's strategy.
Key points
- Gabon is preparing a legal and diplomatic response to the US's WTO inquiry regarding its ban on chicken imports.
- The ban on chicken imports is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
- Gabon will rely on flexibilities provided to developing countries under WTO rules to justify its measures.
