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U.S. ag officials raise issue with Canada

U.S. agricultural officials raised concerns about Canada’s reclassification of milk and wheat during the 25^th Annual Tri-National Agriculture Accord.

Michigan Department of Agriculture Director Jamie Clover Adams tells Brownfield the Province of Ontario has created a new class of milk, ultra-filtered pasteurized milk, making U.S. milk more expensive and defying trade obligations.  “It could mean more Canadian milk on the world market which will impact prices.”

Clover Adams says Canada has also put American wheat in a special class which limits it to feed wheat.  “We pressed and I think they’re on the verge of an agreement nationally for them.  Wheat should be graded on its variety and its uses, not if it comes from the U.S. it goes to the lowest price class.”

She says the U.S. also raised issue with British Columbia’s provincial wine regulations. Clover Adams says since Country of Origin of Labeling has been repealed, there were no major issues raised against the U.S.

All three nations issued a joint communique at the conclusion of the Accord to collectively strengthen North American agri-food competitiveness and increase global agri-food exports.

The Accord is hosted through the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture to renew the trilateral trading relationship developed by the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

AUDIO: Interview with Director Jamie Clover Adams