Turkey Violated International Agreement: WTO

A World Trade Organization (WTO) panel ruled in favor of the United States in its dispute with Turkey over restrictions on U.S. rice imports ruling that Turkey had violated international trade agreements by offering lower tariffs.

The WTO panel also ruled against Turkey's practice of denying licenses for the import of U.S. rice beyond a minimum guaranteed level during certain periods since 2003, such as during Turkey's rice harvests.

Washington brought the case to the WTO in 2006, saying that it tried for three years to settle the problem, but failed. Turkey has 60 days to appeal the decision.