For Immediate Release

Ottawa - Last week a private trade tribunal in Washington D.C. concluded its hearing into a complaint filed by United Parcel Service (UPS) against the federal government under Chapter 11 of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

UPS claims that its business is being hurt by having to compete with Canada Post in the parcels and courier markets. It argues that Canada Post has an unfair advantage when delivering parcels, express and courier services that compete with private courier services. It has consistently failed to persuade Canadian politicians or regulators that its complaints have any merit. Now it is hoping for a different result before an international tribunal established under NAFTA investment rules.

Both the United State's and Mexico's governments have an opportunity to file briefs by January 28, 2006.

The federal government and UPS have one final chance to file material on February 24, 2006. Then the three-person tribunal will begin its deliberations. A decision is expected later next year.

For more information on the UPS-Canada NAFTA trade dispute, please visit the following website: [ http://www.cupw.ca/camps/ups_eng.php ]

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