Farm organizations have been quick to bring forward some lengthy election wish lists for politicians to consider during Canada’s 37-day sprint to the April 28 vote.
It’s no surprise tariffs top the list. Farm groups are calling on the federal government to do whatever it takes to maintain tariff-free access to the U.S. and Chinese markets for livestock and grains.
“Tariffs, and the potential for tariffs, from the two key markets of the U.S. and China are the largest threats facing our industry today,” said Cam Dahl, general manager of Manitoba Pork. “If trade restrictions last without mitigation, jobs and income in every part of Manitoba will be impacted.”
Manitoba exports approximately 90 per cent of the eight million pigs producers raise annually, either live or after processing. American plans are not yet known, but China has slapped tariffs on Canadian pork in retaliation for the federal government’s decision to place 100 per cent tariffs on imported Chinese-made electric vehicles.