POSSIBLE DISPUTE OVER EU POLICY

Abstract

THE EUROPEAN UNION'S PROPOSED regulatory scheme for chemicals continues to worry chemical makers in the U.S. and elsewhere. Much of this concern has focused on whether and how industry will be able to comply with the planned registration, evaluation, and authorization of chemicals (REACH) program-and what the cost will be. Now, industry is beginning to raise a new set of arguments, one that could lift the debate into the global arena of the World Trade Organization. The American Chemistry Council (ACC) says parts of REACH may conflict with international trade rules because the proposal contains provisions that could lead to a formal trade dispute. The European Commission-the administrative arm of the EU-insists that REACH has undergone rigorous review for compliance with WTO regulations. And environmental groups characterize ACCs arguments solely as a tactic to delay or weaken REACH before the plan is finalized. The European Parliament is expected to complete a final version of the ...