China has requested the establishment of a dispute panel to address measures taken by Türkiye concerning electric vehicles and other vehicle types originating from China. This request, China's second after an initial one was blocked by Türkiye, highlights concerns over adherence to World Trade Organization (WTO) obligations and the principle of non-discrimination. Türkiye expressed concern that China is pursuing this request before exhausting all bilateral consultation avenues.
The Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) has agreed to form the panel. Several countries, including the European Union, Japan, and Brazil, have reserved their rights to participate in the proceedings as third parties.
In another case, Indonesia criticized the European Union's renewable energy directive for discriminating against Indonesian palm oil biofuels. The EU welcomed the panel findings that supported its environmental objectives but acknowledged some concerns about these findings.
Costa Rica voiced criticism towards Panama's appeal of a panel report supporting Costa Rica's complaint about import restrictions imposed by Panama on various products. Despite proposing arbitration under Article 25 of the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU), Panama refused Costa Rica’s proposal.
Additionally, Colombia introduced a proposal on behalf of 130 members to initiate selection processes for Appellate Body vacancies. The United States reiterated its position against this decision due to unresolved concerns with WTO dispute settlement.
Status reports were presented by several countries on various disputes, including those involving anti-dumping measures and biotechnology product approvals.
Finally, Ambassador Clare Kelly of New Zealand was elected as Chairperson of the DSB for the upcoming year. The next regular DSB meeting is scheduled for March 24.