Summary
1. EU: introduction of technical standards on electronic cigarettes
In early January 2016, the European Union informed the WTO on the Draft Commission Implementing Decision on technical standards for the refill mechanism of electronic cigarettes. Proposed date of adoption: 2nd quarter 2016. The provisions shall enter into force immediately after adoption. Final date for comments: March 2, 2016.The Directive will need to be transposed into national legislation by 20 May 2016.
2. Russia: temporary ban on swine imports from Ukraine
In early January 2016, the Russian Federation released a notification on a temporary ban on swine imports from Ukraine (from 1 January 2016) due to the worsening of episodic situation with the African swine fever virus.
3. Republic of Korea: changes to the food standards
In the first half of January 2016, the Republic of Korea (South Korea) released a notification on Proposed Amendments to the Standards and Specifications for Foods. Proposed date of adoption and proposed date of publication: to be determined. Final date for comments: March 13, 2016.
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