Any Canada–U.S. Trade Agreement Must Support Agriculture

Florian Possberg, partner with Polar Pork Farms, says maintaining zero tariffs on agricultural products between Canada and the United States—similar to pre–Trump trade war agreements—is critical for the long-term sustainability of agriculture on both sides of the border.

As of August 1, the general tariff on products imported from Canada to the U.S. not covered by the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement increased from 25% to 35%. While agriculture has so far avoided direct impacts, Possberg warns that ongoing political maneuvering creates uncertainty, and the potential for additional tariffs is concerning.

Possberg noted that Polar Pork’s U.S. customers value the health and quality of Canadian pigs and don’t want to lose access. The same applies to other sectors, including energy, grains, and beef.

“Our trade with the Americans is simply good business,” he added. “It’s reassuring to know we have friends south of the border lobbying for agreements that benefit both countries.”