The USA has demanded at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) that the European Union (EU) hands over an unpublished political agreement between its member governments to impose quotas on imports of natural and enriched uranium. Washington claims that this 1994 ‘Corfu Declaration’ effectively blocks imports for 80% of the European enriched uranium market.
Claiming the declaration has “had a negative impact on import suppliers,” the USA formally called for it to be released, with information on its content, purpose, licensing requirements and administration by the Euratom Supply Agency. If the USA is successful, it could base a disputes proceeding on this information, claiming a breach of WTO fair trade rules. “We believe it is time to provide more information on these restrictions,” said an American communiqué.