Turkey Says It's Evaluating Options to Implement WTO Findings Over Pharmaceuticals Spat With EU
Turkey will begin to implement rulings from a World Trade Organization dispute panel and arbitrators' finding that certain Turkish measures over the production, importation and marketing of pharmaceutical products weren't in line with WTO rules, the WTO said Aug. 29. Giving an update of the proceeding at the Aug. 29 meeting of the Dispute Settlement Body, Turkey said it has begun to look at options for implementing the rulings but said it needs a "reasonable period of time to ensure implementation."
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In July, the arbitrators confirmed the panel's ruling that Turkey's localization measure discriminates against foreign pharmaceutical products because it's not a form of government procurement, nor is it meant to achieve public health objectives or compliance with laws requiring Turkey to ensure effective and accessible sustainable healthcare for its citizens (see 2207250062). The EU expressed its satisfaction there is an "efficient alternative to preserve the right of appeal for the parties" -- an approach similar to the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement. The EU and Turkey both expressed a willingness to discuss possible implementation steps.
The U.S. also welcomed the agreement, though it wanted to "draw attention" to an "issue of systemic importance" -- that the arbitration award was not adopted by the DSB. "Accordingly, the arbitration award does not contain 'adopted recommendations or rulings' within the meaning" of the Dispute Settlement Understanding, the WTO said.