Alberta beef producers and farmers are applauding the approval of a landmark trade deal between Canada and the European Union. 

 

On Wednesday, the European Parliament voted to ratify the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

 

Kevin Auch, chair of the Alberta Wheat Commission, says the trade deal will give Canada a large competitive advantage over the U.S. — Canada's biggest competition — because it will eliminate any tariffs imposed on Canadian production.

 

"We rely so heavily on export markets that any time we can secure these type of trade deals it's always good for Canadian farmers and wheat farmers in particular," he said.

 

The Canadian Cattleman's Association says the EU has the potential to become a $600-million market for Canadian beef annually, up from current levels of between $6 million to $10 million per year.