CETA Provides Important, New Opportunities for Canadian Agricultural Exporters

The Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) is pleased with the increased market access secured through the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) for Canada's agricultural exporters. The Canada-EU agreement will provide increased access to the largest consumer market in the world.

 

"We would like to extend our thanks to Minister Ritz and Minister Fast for their leadership in moving this agreement forward. Given their commitment to the file to date, we have every confidence the provisions will be implemented as soon as possible so our exporters can begin benefiting from the deal," said CFA President, Ron Bonnett.

 

Between 2010 and 2012, Canada's annual agricultural exports to the EU averaged $2.5 billion, led by wheat, soybeans and other oilseeds, canola oil, frozen fruit and maple syrup. Once ratified and implemented, CETA will provide new duty-free access for 64,950 tonnes of Canadian beef - 50,000 tonnes of which is new quota -totally nearly $600 million annually. Pork allowances will increase to 80, 000 tonnes- all new quota. The deal will also eliminate approximately 95% of EU agricultural tariffs, previously a huge barrier for trade, which averaged 13.9%.

 

On the downside, EU fine cheese imports will substantially increase - 32,000 tonnes of EU cheese will be permitted in Canada. The CFA has always urged for a balanced trade deal - one that strengthens and supports all of the commodities that make up Canada's diverse agricultural sector. "We insist the government work with the Canadian dairy industry to fully mitigate any potential damage the agreement may cause the Canadian dairy sector, allowing it to maintain its strength as an important contributor to the Canadian economy and rural communities," stressed Bonnett.

 

The Canadian Federation of Agriculture is the country's largest general farm organization. Its members include provincial general farm organizations, national and inter-provincial commodity organizations - representing over 200,000 Canadian farmers and farm families through its members. Founded in 1935 to provide Canada's farmers with a single voice in Ottawa, the CFA works on behalf of Canada's farmers to ensure the continued development of a viable and vibrant agriculture and agri-food industry in Canada.