Animal Welfare and International Trade Law: The Impact of the WTO Seal Case

Overview:
A legal analysis of how animal welfare concerns intersect with international trade law, centered on the World Trade Organization’s EC–Seal Products dispute. It examines whether trade restrictions justified by public morals and animal welfare are compatible with WTO rules. Implications for future welfare-based trade measures are discussed. It is relevant to policy makers and scholars of animal law.

Key Topics Covered:

• Background of the EC–Seal Products dispute
• Public morals exception under GATT
• Animal welfare as a trade concern
• WTO jurisprudence and implications
• Future welfare-based trade measures

Target Audience:
Legal Scholars, Policy Makers, Animal Welfare Advocates