OTTAWA, ONTARIO – The Canadian Pork Council (CPC) stated on Feb. 12 that it joined the “Say No to a Bad Deal” coalition, which advocates against the United Kingdom being admitted into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) until specific terms are reached on both sides.

Other members of the campaign include the Canadian Cattle Association, the Canadian Meat Council, the Canadian Pork Council, and the National Cattle Feeders Association.

“The CPC is proud to join the ‘Say No to a Bad Deal’ coalition, and we are calling for renegotiations of the CPTPP before Canada approves the United Kingdom’s ascension,” said Rene Roy, chair of the Canadian Pork Council. “We have been patient and proposed solutions to safeguard the interests of Canadian farmers and ranchers, yet our concerns remain unaddressed. Setting a precedent for non-tariff trade barriers within the CPTPP must be avoided to protect our industry.”

Over the last few months, trade officials for the United Kingdom and Canada have struggled to agree on terms for trade between the two countries, particularly in the agriculture sector.

Last July, trade associations noted that the UK does not accept Canada’s meat inspection system and that current tariffs lack reciprocity.

The government of Canada continues to push the UK to relax a ban on hormone-treated animals, which makes it difficult for Canadian producers to enter the British market.

CPC noted in its latest statements that it supports fair trade terms that uphold the principles of reciprocity and mutual benefit. The organization stated it remains committed to advocating for the interest of Canadian pork producers and keeping up the industry’s long-term viability.

“Fair trade is not a buzzword; it is the cornerstone of sustainable economic growth and prosperity,” Roy said. “For Canadian farmers, particularly pork producers, fair trade means access to global markets under mutually beneficial terms. It guarantees that our products can compete fairly, fostering growth and stability in our industry and for the country.”

The organization noted that Canadian pork producers export 70% of their production, illustrating the importance of international markets for their success.