In addition to the elimination of export subsidies, the WTO framework includes provisions to increase market access and reduce domestic subsidies. If the framework language remains intact during the Doha negotiations, several U.S. dairy policies might have to be changed or ended, including the federal Dairy Price Support Program, the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) payments and the Dairy Export Incentive Program (DEIP). However, the framework does not contain any deadline for the abolition of export subsidies.
Dairy industry representatives in Washington are in general agreement that the framework is good for the industry. Clay Hough, SVP and gen. counsel with the International Dairy Foods Assn., called it "a major achievement" that will benefit U.S. dairy exporters. At the same time, Jerry Kozak, CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation, called it a "positive development" that protects U.S. dairy interests.