GENEVA, SWITZERLAND (RFD NEWS) — U.S. agricultural exporters face growing uncertainty as the World Trade Organization’s Appellate Body remains non-functioning, leaving trade disputes without a final enforcement mechanism. The breakdown limits predictability in a system designed to protect market access.
At Tuesday’s Dispute Settlement Body meeting, Colombia — speaking for 130 members — introduced for the 95th time a proposal to begin filling Appellate Body vacancies. The United States again blocked the move, citing unresolved concerns about judicial overreach and procedural violations.
Farm-Level Takeaway: A stalled WTO appeals body increases long-term trade policy risk for U.S. agriculture.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Washington has prevented new appointments since 2017, following rulings it argues exceeded negotiated mandates — including agriculture cases such as Brazil’s challenge to U.S. cotton subsidies and GSM-102 export credit guarantees.
Without a quorum, countries can appeal panel decisions “into the void,” halting enforcement. This was on display this week after a panel ruling suspending the adoption of a panel ruling on U.S. Inflation Reduction Act tax credits was appealed by the United States.
Several members continue to urge the restoration of the full dispute system, but absent a reform agreement, paralysis is likely to persist.
The Cotton-4 are pushing hard for new value chain investments. Still, many U.S. cotton producers face unsustainable losses, and weakened regional textile capacity threatens the survival of the Carolina “dirt-to-shirt” supply chain.
December 01, 2025 05:03 PM
·
Cargill’s commitment to keep plants open helps preserve competition as Tyson removes capacity amid historically tight cattle supplies.
December 01, 2025 03:55 PM
·
Brooks York with AgriSompo joins us to offer an update on what agents are prioritizing as the calendar year winds down.
December 01, 2025 03:06 PM
·
A leading Oklahoma veterinarian explains common symptoms of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) and warns owners to remain vigilant because it can spread quickly among horses.
December 01, 2025 02:16 PM
·
National FFA President Trey Myers joins Monday’s FFA Today to share his hopes and goals for the 2025-2026 year as he steps into this opportunity to lead and serve the next generation of agriculture.
December 01, 2025 01:00 PM
·
Despite the need for swift action, many ag lawmakers and industry groups argue that farm aid alone will likely not be sufficient to help farmers without improved trade relations with China.
December 01, 2025 12:21 PM
·
