Guelph, Ont. – The Beef Farmers of Ontario (BFO) is disappointed to learn of the passing of Bill C-202, an Act to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act.
This legislation poses risks to Ontario’s economic prosperity and to Canada’s reputation as a reliable and ambitious trading partner. Ontario’s economy is driven by international trade, which supports one in six jobs and accounts for two-thirds of provincial economic activity. By restricting Canada's ability to fully engage with trading partners, Bill C-202 threatens to undermine our trade relationships.
The bill sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden protectionist pressures from other sectors, weaken the ambition of future trade deals, and jeopardize export-dependent industries like the beef and cattle sectors.
Beef farmers derive a significant portion of the value of their animals from access to international markets. As one of the most sustainable beef-producing nations in the world, Canada has a unique opportunity to help meet the growing global demand for high-quality protein. Bill C-202 puts this opportunity—and our relationships with key trading partners—at risk.