The Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA) is voicing strong opposition to the U.S. administration’s decision to impose new tariffs on Canadian and Mexican agri-food imports, warning of significant economic consequences for all three nations.
Impact on Farmers and Consumers
The newly announced tariffs will increase costs, disrupt supply chains, and put pressure on farmers and food producers across North America. According to CAFTA President Greg Northey, these trade barriers leave consumers and businesses worse off, making food more expensive while reducing competitiveness in the global market.
“CAFTA will continue to advocate for free and open trade in agriculture and agri-food to benefit consumers, farmers, and producers,” Northey stated. “We will not relent until order is restored to our integrated North American market.”
Threats to an Integrated Supply Chain
North America’s agri-food industry depends on seamless cross-border trade, allowing farmers to compete internationally while ensuring affordable food prices. The tariffs risk undoing decades of cooperation and efficiency, raising costs and creating uncertainty for producers.
“Today’s decision has weakened the United States, along with Canada and Mexico,” said Michael Harvey, Executive Director of CAFTA. “CAFTA supports the efforts of the Government of Canada to push for the removal of these tariffs and return to a fair, rules-based trading system that benefits producers and consumers on both sides of the border.”
What’s Next?
With mounting concerns over market instability, Canadian and Mexican agricultural leaders are urging the U.S. government to reconsider its position. As trade tensions rise, industry stakeholders are watching closely to see if North American leaders can reach a resolution that safeguards the future of cross-border agriculture and livestock production.
