“Our industry in 2014 exported over $2 billion,” she said. “Our top markets tend to be (other than the United States) Australia and various others. There’s some definite opportunities for our manufacturers to export more of their equipment.”
Olson said Australia and New Zealand are among the countries where there’s a need for agricultural equipment.
Under the TPP agreement, many tariffs will be eliminated or reduced; according to Global Affairs Canada, New Zealand and Australia will eliminate tariffs of up to five per cent on harvesters, mowers and other equipment.
Since the introduction of the TPP, there have been people openly against it but Olson said the agreement can have a multi-layered effect – especially if the traded products are of the highest quality.
“When you start to trade with others it either brings your production up or if you’re in a weaker perspective, gives you opportunities to improve it and work with others who have a competitive advantage,” she said. “We’re fortunate that we are the best of the best.”