IDFA calls for full USMCA compliance and better dairy market access
The U.S. dairy industry is encouraging Canada to fully meet its commitments under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and improve access for American dairy products.
Michael Dykes, President and CEO of the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), said the organization continues to support fair and transparent trade between the two countries. His comments followed new U.S. actions aimed at addressing trade concerns involving Canadian policies.
“IDFA has consistently called on Canada to fully implement its dairy commitments under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and eliminate policies that deny U.S. dairy exporters the market access that was negotiated. Our members seek the fair and transparent access promised under the agreement, including proper administration of dairy tariff-rate quotas and the elimination of policies that distort dairy protein trade,” he said.
According to IDFA, American dairy exporters continue to face challenges in accessing the Canadian market. The organization believes Canada should properly manage dairy tariff-rate quotas and remove policies that affect trade in dairy proteins. These measures were negotiated as part of the USMCA and are intended to provide fair opportunities for dairy businesses in North America.
He continued, “We encourage U.S. and Canadian officials to work together to resolve these longstanding issues. A strong, fully implemented USMCA remains the best path forward for dairy producers, processors, and consumers across North America, and we support efforts to preserve the agreement while ensuring that all parties live up to their commitments.”
At the same time, IDFA encouraged officials from both countries to work together to resolve ongoing trade concerns. The association stated that cooperation and open dialogue are the best ways to strengthen trade relationships and support the dairy sector.
The organization also stressed the importance of preserving a strong and fully implemented USMCA. IDFA believes the agreement remains the best framework for supporting dairy producers, processors, and consumers across North America.
As discussions continue, the dairy industry hopes both governments will honor their commitments and find practical solutions that benefit farmers, processors, exporters, and consumers alike.
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