Trade emerged as the primary focus at the 2024 Annual General Meeting of Sask Pork, held last week in Swift Current, Saskatchewan. With the renegotiation of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) on the horizon, Saskatchewan’s pork producers expressed a strong desire to preserve the robust trading relationship between Canada and the United States.
Mark Ferguson, General Manager of the Saskatchewan Pork Development Board, highlighted North America’s success as a global leader in trade, particularly in the pork sector. He emphasized that maintaining free trade is critical for producers and consumers in both countries.
Strengthening Canada-U.S. Trade Relations
According to Ferguson, the trading relationship between Canada and the U.S. is one of mutual benefit, with both nations being each other’s largest trading partners.
“On the trade side, we have a great trading relationship with the U.S. and it goes both ways. Pork producers certainly want to see that continue. The message is that we want to provide product to Canada and the U.S. to consumers in both countries that is economical. Pork is one of the most economical proteins to purchase, and we would like to keep it that way. We don’t want to see Canada get into a trade war at all. We want to see free trade continue,” said Ferguson.
The Impact of Tariffs on Consumers
Ferguson also pointed out the significant challenges tariffs create, not only for producers but also for consumers. He noted that tariffs raise costs across the board, making pork products more expensive and less accessible.
“The problem with tariffs is they make everything more expensive and hurt consumers, and I doubt consumers want that,” Ferguson added.
A Shared Goal Among Producers
Sask Pork echoed the sentiment that both Canadian and U.S. pork producers benefit from a harmonious trade relationship. Producers on both sides of the border share a common goal: delivering affordable, high-quality pork to consumers. Ferguson emphasized that North America’s trade system is a global success story that has provided economic benefits for years.
Looking Ahead
As discussions around CUSMA renegotiation heat up, Sask Pork is actively working to ensure the interests of Canadian pork producers and consumers are protected. Their focus remains on fostering economic stability and strengthening ties with American consumers, who play a vital role in the success of the pork industry.
For updates on this developing story and more insights into trade issues affecting the pork sector, stay tuned to Swine Web—your trusted source for industry news.
