Last week, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, visited Beijing to strengthen trade ties and advocate for Canadian agricultural interests. During his visit, he engaged with Chinese industry leaders, importers, and Canadian stakeholders to highlight the importance of fair competition, inclusive trade, and sustainable agricultural practices.
The Minister addressed several key issues, including China’s anti-dumping investigation into Canadian canola seed imports, ongoing delays in approving Canadian market access requests, and restrictions on Canadian beef and dry pet food containing poultry ingredients. He emphasized Canada’s readiness to collaborate with China to enhance the bilateral agricultural trade relationship while promoting sustainable and resilient agri-food systems.
Minister MacAulay delivered a keynote address at the Canada China Business Council Annual General Meeting and Business Forum, acknowledging the Council’s efforts to foster trade relations. He also highlighted the role of the Canada Brand program in showcasing the quality, innovation, and sustainability of Canadian products, providing exporters with a competitive advantage in the global market.
In addition, the Minister visited the MARS Global Food Safety Centre, learning about its food safety research and collaborations with various stakeholders, including government and academia.
A significant announcement during the visit was the establishment of the Canadian Meat Advocacy Office in Beijing, supported by a federal investment of $223,850 over two years through the AgriMarketing program. The office will enhance Canada’s red meat sector presence in China, working closely with local intermediaries to improve market access.
Quick Facts:
- Trade Relations: China is Canada’s second-largest market for agriculture, agri-food, and fish and seafood products, with $11.5 billion in sales in 2023.
- Canola Exports: China is Canada’s top canola seed buyer, importing over 4.5 million tonnes worth $3.8 billion in 2023.
- Trade Challenges: On September 9, 2024, China launched an anti-dumping investigation on Canadian canola seed imports. Canada remains committed to defending its businesses and ensuring fair trade.
- Regional Strategy: The Indo-Pacific region, home to 11 of Canada’s top 20 trading partners, represents over $47.19 trillion in economic activity. In February 2024, Canada opened its first Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office to strengthen engagement in this vital region.
Minister MacAulay reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to fostering fair and mutually beneficial trade relationships, showcasing Canadian excellence in agri-food and ensuring continued support for producers and exporters in a competitive global market.
