“Our Government always puts farmers first and step by step we are reopening markets for Canadian pork producers,” said Vic Toews, Member of Parliament for Provencher and President of the Treasury Board, following the announcement that China will be reopening their markets to Canadian pork exporters.
Today’s development comes after many high-level interventions from Canadian experts and Governmental officials. China has indicated that they will lift the A/H1N1 2009-related ban on Canadian pork and pork products from Manitoba, Alberta, and Quebec.
“We have been working closely with our international counterparts to ensure our producers remain competitive and profitable. This announcement is a very positive step,” said Toews.
Regrettably, China continues to ban live swine imports. Canada will continue to seek the removal of all trade restrictions on live swine, as well as ensure that Canadian pork producers gain access to Chinese markets as soon as possible.
China is an important market for Canadian exporters and Chinese importers of pork and live swine, with pork exports valued at $47 million in 2008.
