The United States appeal of the World Trade Organisation disputes panel decision on New Zealand lamb imports was no surprise, Trade Negotiations Minister Jim Sutton said today.

The United States formally lodged an appeal with the WTO in Geneva yesterday.

Mr Sutton said it had been widely expected that the United States would appeal the WTO decision that the safeguard measures imposed on New Zealand and Australian lamb imports were unfair.

"Officials have been preparing a case for the anticipated appeal, which should be heard early this year. We believe our case is extremely strong and expect it will be upheld, despite the appeal."

Meat NZ's annual report says that $175 million was earned from lamb imports to the United States in the year till September 2000.

ENDS

© Scoop Media