National Council of Farmer Cooperatives
Representing the Business Interests of Agriculture

“We are extremely disappointed that recent WTO talks in Geneva have failed to make progress in advancing the goals of the Doha Development Round. Last fall, the United States stepped forward with a bold comprehensive package that would provide meaningful progress for the developing and developed world. However, the European Union and other countries have failed to respond by bringing to the table a serious proposal for agriculture. Obstructionist nations continue to stall the negotiations by squabbling over secondary issues and avoiding the task of real reform, particularly on market access.

“The U.S. proposal, which calls for a dramatic reduction in domestic supports and the elimination of export subsidies, together with real increases in market access, is one that NCFC supports and believes should continue to be the basis for any meaningful agreement.

"We are proud of the leadership of U.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns for their continued strong stance in support of the U.S. position. Hopefully critical consultations over the next month will include meaningful movement from other nations including Brazil and India.”