By Jamie Martin
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) is calling for Canada to fully implement its dairy commitments under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Michael Dykes, President and CEO of IDFA, said the association wants fair and transparent access to the Canadian dairy market, as originally negotiated under the trade agreement.
“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, key concerns include the administration of dairy tariff-rate quotas and policies that affect dairy protein trade. The association believes these issues reduce the market access that was intended under USMCA.
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.”
IDFA also encouraged government leaders in both countries to continue working together on solutions. The organization said cooperation is important for resolving longstanding trade disagreements and maintaining strong economic ties.
The association noted that a fully implemented USMCA provides significant benefits for dairy producers, processors, exporters, and consumers across North America. Industry leaders believe the agreement offers the best path toward stable and predictable trade conditions.
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Categories: National