Posted on 09/18/2010, 12:18 pm, by mySteinbach

The Canadian Wheat Board welcomes the federal government’s announcement of exploratory discussions on a free trade agreement with Turkey.
 
“Removing trade barriers in the international marketplace is good business for western Canadian wheat and barley growers,” said CWB President and CEO Ian White. “I thank Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz for his efforts to expand marketing opportunities for producers.”
 
In 2009, overall agricultural exports to Turkey totaled $160 million, and in the 2008-09 crop year, exports of wheat and durum reached more than $30 million. High-quality wheat, durum and barley exports from Canada to Turkey are highly variable and are dependent on Turkish grain production and quality.
 
A free trade agreement could help to improve Canada’s competitive position in a market of more than 70 million people. In years when Turkey requires high-quality imports, an agreement would make Prairie wheat more attractive.