The WTO concluded its hearings on Europe’s ban on seal products on Tuesday 30 April 2013. The challenge under GATT was initiated by Canada and Norway. No report by the WTO Panel is expected for some months.

In addition, last Thursday 25 April 2013 the European General Court upheld Europe’s ban on commercial seal products. The challenge was made by the sealing and fur trade industries and some Inuit representatives.

The legal issues are canvassed here.