Ontario Agriculture

The network for agriculture in Ontario, Canada

The CFFO Commentary: Canadian Agricultural Trade Policy from a Practical Perspective

By Nathan Stevens
May 11, 2012
 
Canadian trade policy is one of the more controversial issues that Ontario farmers live with every day. There are segments of Ontario agriculture that would benefit from more open trade and segments that would not reap the same rewards. A recent trade policy session held by the George Morris Centre brought in several experts on the intricacies of international trade deals and the challenges and opportunities that Canada and its farmers are currently facing as talk over joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership heats up.
 
First and Foremost, the multi-lateral approach is stalled at the moment and bilateral and regional deals are picking up steam. The Doha Round of the World Trade Organization negotiations is stuck. Instead, countries that see mutually advantageous situations are developing bi-lateral deals, such as the Canada-Europe Union CETA, or regional deals, like the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
 
Mark McConnell, a trade lawyer, shared his view on the perspective of the United States (US), the largest player in the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The U.S. is more concerned about Japan as a potential partner than either Canada or Mexico. He noted that the new Farm Bill appears to be heading towards serious cuts in support programs. Meanwhile, elements of the U.S. dairy sector are pushing towards a form of supply management, which will greatly impact U.S. views on the Canadian supply management system from a trade perspective.
 
Larry Herman, a trade lawyer who believes in an aggressive stance on trade, argued that the dairy industry should be developing transitioning options for the government to move forward on these deals. From his point of view, the system does not need to be dismantled, but aspects of it could be changed in order to further trade opportunities. He also noted that these deals aren’t just about agricultural interests, and that other sectors have mixed views of the deal as well.
 
From the perspective of Peter Gould, General Manager of Dairy Farmers of Ontario, the dairy supply management system is working well, is willing to discuss issues, but has no intention of offering transition options to the Canadian Government. The innovative dairy industry in Ontario is focused on expanding into new markets and finding new opportunities for milk producers.
 
There are many different perspectives on the future of agricultural trade policy and the impact that it will have on Ontario’s farmers. If Canada succeeds in joining the Trans Pacific Partnership, there will be opportunities and challenges that innovative farmers will need to prepare for in our increasingly global business environment.


 

Nathan Stevens is the Interim Manager and Director of Policy Development for the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario. The CFFO Commentary represents the opinions of the writer and does not necessarily represent CFFO policy. The CFFO Commentary is heard weekly on CFCO Chatham, CKNX Wingham, and UCB Canada radio stations in Chatham, Belleville, Bancroft, Brockville and Kingston and in Brantford and Woodstock. It is also found on the CFFO website:www.christianfarmers.org. CFFO is supported by 4,200 family farmers across Ontario.

Views: 130

Comment

You need to be a member of Ontario Agriculture to add comments!

Join Ontario Agriculture

Agriculture Headlines from Farms.com Canada East News - click on title for full story

Leif Carlson Named Vice President, Markets and Trade 

Cereals Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Leif Carlson to the position of Vice President, Markets and Trade, effective immediately. In this role, Carlson will lead efforts to expand and protect global market opportunities for Canada’s cereal crops. “Leif’s expertise, commitment to agriculture, and proven leadership continue to strengthen the Canadian cereals value chain,” said Dean Dias, Chief Executive Officer of Cereals Canada. “His leadership in this role will support dependable market access and sustained global demand for Canadian wheat, durum, barley, and oats.” In his previous role as Director of Market Intelligence and Trade Policy, Carlson championed the promotion of Canadian cereals and helped protect the interests of the value chain in global markets. Since September 2025, he has also represented the sector as a Director with the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA), advocating for fair and predictable trade. Carlson holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a

Canada’s Ag Day: Celebrating Farmers Who Grow Their Best for the World

Every year, Canadian farmers combine expertise and innovation to grow their best for the world. Their commitment ensures that Canada continues to deliver wheat that meets the needs of millers, bakers, and consumers here at home and in over eighty countries around the globe. As we celebrate Canada’s Ag Day, we’re proud to recognize the dedication of the people whose work feeds families, supports our economy, strengthens rural communities, and helps sustain Canada’s reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality wheat. Highly valued for its high protein content, milling performance, and ability to produce great tasting foods—from breads and noodles to pastries and breakfast cereals—Canadian wheat is a top choice for millers and food manufacturers in more than 80 countries. Find out what makes Canadian wheat amongst the best in the world at Canadian Wheat—Quality You Can See and Taste

Grain sector warns of information gaps in AAFC research reductions, calls for immediate program impact disclosure

Grain Growers of Canada is calling on the federal government to provide clarity on the impacts of recent staffing reductions and announced closures or consolidations of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research facilities, stating that downstream consequences cannot be assessed without clear, program-level information. “Transparency is essential when decisions affect the foundation of Canada’s agricultural research system,” said Scott Hepworth, chair of Grain Growers of Canada and Saskatchewan grain farmer. “Without clear disclosure of what research capacity is being reduced or eliminated, the sector cannot understand the long-term risks to production and competitiveness,” he added. “It must be clear what capacity is being lost, where, and with what consequences.” Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has cited personnel confidentiality in limiting details on the announced changes. Grain Growers of Canada emphasized that while personnel confidentiality must be respected, it does not,

New Leadership Team Named at OFVGA

Ontario’s fruit and vegetable association appoints a new chair and vice chair to lead advocacy, manage challenges, and support growers across the horticulture industry.

CRSB Launches Certified Beef Producer Incentive Program

CRSB launches a new incentive program offering 400 dollars to certified beef producers in 2026 to reward sustainable practices and strengthen Canada’s responsible beef supply chain.

© 2026   Created by Darren Marsland.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service