118) The Committee recalled that its last session had discussed a proposal from the Delegation of the United Kingdom to initiate new work on country of origin labelling, since this was an important element of information for consumers and several countries were currently considering this question at the national level. The Committee had agreed that a detailed discussion paper should be prepared for further consideration by the 29th Session.
119) The Delegation of the United Kingdom presented the discussion paper prepared in collaboration with the Delegations of Switzerland and Malaysia and pointed out that the current provisions of the General Standard for the Labelling of Prepackaged Foods did not entirely address consumer concerns in relation to country of origin declaration. The paper also considered the practical implications of additional labelling provisions, outlined different options for new provisions on origin declaration for both foods and ingredients, and included specific proposals to amend the General Standard.
120) Many delegations and observers expressed their appreciation for this comprehensive discussion paper and supported the proposal of the United Kingdom to undertake a revision of the current provisions on origin declaration in the General Standard.
121) Some delegations, including the United States, and observers expressed their concerns about the justification of additional labelling requirements for ingredients by origin; the feasibility and practical aspects of ingredient origin declaration; and possible implications in international trade. It was noted by the Delegation of the United States that the results of current consultations in the World Customs Organization would be considered in the framework of WTO. The Observer from ICGMA supported the concerns expressed about the feasibility, justification and practicality of the proposal and referred to sections 4.5.1 and 4.5.2 of the General Standard as sufficiently addressing country of origin labelling. The Observer concluded by opining that the Committee should remain focused on food labelling provisions intended to protect the health of consumers and facilitating trade, and should not amend the current Standard.
122) The Committee agreed to seek the approval of the Commission to undertake new work on an amendment to the General Standard to amend current provisions on country of origin labelling (Section 4.5). Subject to the approval of the Commission, it was agreed that the Delegation of the United Kingdom, with the assistance of Switzerland, Malaysia and other interested countries would prepare a Proposed Draft Amendment on the basis of the discussion paper, for circulation at Step 3 and consideration by the next session of the Committee.
