Ritz returns from trade talks with Russia and Kazakhstan

May 23, 2013

Ritz returns from trade talks with Russia and Kazakhstan

Agriculture Minister promotes Canadian livestock on trade mission

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz has returned from an agriculture trade mission in Russia and Kazakhstan, where he sought to enhance market opportunities for Canada’s livestock industry.

Minister Ritz helped secure commercial contracts with two Manitoba-based companies in Russia – Genesus securing an $8 million contract for breeding swine and in Kazakhstan – Xports International reaching a deal to sell $3 million worth of Canadian purebred cattle.

In addition to witnessing commercial contract signings, Ritz advocated for beef and hog producers reaffirming Canada’s opposition to Russia’s ban on ractopamine – a feed additive which the Russians deem unsafe despite a number of international regulatory agencies recognizing it as safe. The Russian government agreed to send its own veterinarians to Canada to visit some meat facilities.

In a press release, Minister Ritz said that his government will continue to advocate for science-based import requirements and assisting livestock producers grow export market opportunities in Russia and Kazakhstan.

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