Forbidden by the WTO? Discrimination Against a Product When Its Creation Causes Harm to the Environment or Animal Welfare

Abstract

Sometimes countries make distinctions between seemingly identical products because of the different impact that each product's processing method has on the environment or animal welfare. When used appropriately, these distinctions can be a powerful force toward positive environmental change, sustainable development, and increased animal welfare. This article shows how environmental and animal welfare process and production (PPM) distinctions can and should exist within the framework of the international trade regime.

Keywords: animal welfare, sustainable development, international trade, environmental law, international environmental law, WTO

JEL Classification: F1, K10, K32, K33