As Canada, the United States, and Mexico begin public consultations ahead of the 2026 review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), industry leaders are urging caution to protect one of Canada’s most important agricultural trade relationships.
Florian Possberg, Partner with Polar Pork Farms and a long-time industry voice, says the Canadian government must approach renegotiations thoughtfully—especially regarding its hardline stance on dairy supply management—which could jeopardize broader agricultural trade, including pork.
A Strong Trade Relationship at Risk
The CUSMA agreement has helped create an integrated North American pork supply chain. Canada exports over $5 billion worth of pork annually, with the U.S. as a key customer and partner.
However, tensions could escalate as U.S. negotiators push back against Canada’s protection of its dairy and poultry sectors. Possberg cautions that if these issues dominate negotiations, the pork sector—which relies on low-tariff access and seamless trade—could face collateral damage.