TPP would benefit Canada beef

The Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) said in a press release Jan. 16 that it supports the government of Canada signing the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The SSGA has added its voice to Canada’s beef producer organizations ahead of an expected meeting of representatives from the 11 countries of the TPP. For Canada’s beef industry, a trade deal with the Asia Pacific region is of vital importance, the organization said. By signing on to the TPP, Canada will see tariffs immediately fall to 27 percent, the level now being paid by Australia, a key competitor for beef exports to the region. Canada would also gain an 11 percent advantage in tariff rates over U.S. beef exports. Canadian beef exports have the potential to grow by $200 million with the signing of the TPP. The United States is no longer a part of the TPP negotiations as President Donald Trump pulled out of the talks soon after taking office. Meanwhile talks are continuing with Canada, Mexico and the United States to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement. — WLJ