Canadian Farm Exports Snagged in World Safety Net

(Reuters – Rod Nickel)

A series of trade restrictions on Canadian farm products this year has ratcheted up the pressure on farmers, many of whom say the barriers reflect protectionism rather than genuine concern over food safety. From China to Europe, various foreign markets have banned shipments of Canadian-produced raw materials for cattle feed, vegetable oil, linoleum flooring and hot dogs, driving down prices at the farm gate.

Making matters worse, the trade bans causing farmers so much pain seem strangely arbitrary to many Canadians.

“A lot of it comes down to recessionary (pressure) that they’re under,” Canadian Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz said on Wednesday. Export markets “tend to get more protectionist as they safeguard their own folks.” As for the specific restrictions, Ritz said: “Some are based on a bit of reality, some are a real stretch.” Read more here.