The Canadian Meat Council, Canadian Cattle Association and the Canadian Pork Council have expressed their opposition to the United Kingdom (UK) being granted accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
“The CPTPP has, until now, provided a high standard for trade liberalization, but this agreement with the UK leaves a significant barrier in place,” the groups said in a statement. “It does not meet this standard of open trade and will undermine ambition with future entrants.”
The groups said they will oppose the legislation necessary for the UK’s approval until their concerns are addressed. Of utmost concern is the UK’s lack of acceptance of Canada’s meat inspection system, which will limit access to the UK market.
“In addition, there is a lack of reciprocal tariff measures which, under the interim measure, have allowed British beef and pork full access to the Canadian market without full reciprocity,” the groups said.
