Canadian cattle groups seek Mercosur trade protections
Canadian cattle industry groups are urging the government to exclude domestic market access from any trade deal with the Mercosur bloc. Leaders cited concerns over animal health standards and potential risks to the integrated North American beef supply chain.
Canada cattle groups are demanding the exclusion of domestic beef market access from any trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc. The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) and National Cattle Feeders Association issued the warning as federal negotiators move toward a provisional deal with the South American group. Protecting domestic market share matters for Canadian producers currently grappling with high input costs and a shrinking national herd.
### Protecting the Domestic Market CCA President Tyler Fulton stated that 30% of domestic beef consumption is already imported, making the Canadian market one of the most exposed globally. Producers fear that granting further access to major exporters like Brazil and Argentina would destabilize local operations. These South American nations are seeking new outlets as China imposes tighter quotas on their exports.
