Scrap Trade Body Seeks WTO Intervention on Scrap Export Ban

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Scrap Iron Dealers Association of Trinidad & Tobago has urged the World Trade Organization (WTO) to intervene in the six-month temporary ban imposed on exports of scrap metal from the country.

In a letter addressed to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General, WTO, the Association President Allan Ferguson noted that the country being a member of the world trade body since March 1995, is required to stick to the general guidelines and policies of the organization. It must be noted that the WTO prohibits discrimination between trading partners, although it offers exceptions for environmental protection, national security, and other important goals.

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Ferguson called for the necessary guidance and intervention of the WTO in the matter, as it is crucial for the survival of the scrap iron industry in the country. The move by the government comes even after several attempts in partnership with the government to curb metal theft, which along with vandalism is considered as the primary cause for damage to country’s copper wire and other metals.

The ban will have serious negative impacts on the livelihood of thousands of citizens below the poverty line. The ban is detrimental to the mere existence of the scrap iron industry in the cou8ntry, the letter said.