Help is on the way for supply managed sectors affected by the new USMCA trade deal.
The federal government has announced a new working group comprised of dairy farmers and processors. The Liberals say market access for dairy in the USMCA is estimated at approximately 3.59% of Canadian production.
“The Government understands how much hard work goes into building and growing a dairy business, and we also know how important our farmers and farm businesses are to this country's economic prosperity," said Federal Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay. "That is why we will make sure the voices of the working group representatives are reflected in the development of a long-term vision for the dairy sector. Together, we will make sure the sector remains strong, stable, and competitive well into the future.”
The working group brings together officials from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, representatives from national dairy organizations and associations, as well as regional representatives. The government says the working group will collaborate to develop strategies to fully and fairly support farmers and processors to help them adjust to the USMCA.
It will also discuss support to reflect the impact of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which was formally ratified this week.
A similar working group has also been established for the poultry and egg sectors.
Source : Steinbachonline