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WTO delays verdict for Airbus to 2009

The highly-publicized dispute between the US and Europe over subsidies for Airbus has been delayed to next year by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Sources say that there are too many complications, so WTO needs more time to study the case.

The decision extends one of the most expensive trade disputes of the last decade. This transatlantic divide involves billions of billions of dollars. Both parties are accusing each other of giving unfair support to their civil aircraft industry.

"It will not be possible for the Panel to complete its work within six months of the date of composition due to, inter alia, the substantive and procedural complexities of the volume of materials involved in this dispute," commented a panel dispute chairman. He concluded, “"The Panel expects to complete its work in 2009."