Minister MacAulay Strengthens Agricultural Trade Partnership with Mexico
OTTAWA, Dec. 8, 2017 /CNW/ - Growing Canada's agricultural trade with Mexico is a key economic driver that will help create more long-term growth and good jobs that benefit the middle-class. Bilateral agri-trade between Canada and Mexico reached $4.2 billion in 2016.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, today concluded a two-day visit to Mexico City to strengthen bilateral relations and promote trade opportunities. Canada was also recognized as an international Guest of Honour at Alimentaria, an important Mexican food and beverage trade show that attracts over 300 companies from more than two dozen countries. The Minister toured the trade show with Mexico's President Enrique Peña Nieto and Mexican Secretary of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food, José Calzada. Canada showcased its high-quality food products and promoted its strong bilateral relationship with Mexico. The Minister's visit was part of Canada's efforts to grow global agri-food exports to $75 billion by 2025.
While in Mexico City, Minister MacAulay held his fifth official meeting with Secretary Calzada, to promote ongoing trade between both countries. Building on continued collaboration, the Minister delivered remarks at a keynote conference with around 500 attendees, including influential Mexican government and industry stakeholders.
The Minister also participated in a roundtable discussion with key Canadian and Mexican industry officials, where they exchanged ideas on increasing bilateral trade opportunities and further strengthening their integrated trade relationship. They discussed the ongoing negotiations of the North American Free Trade Agreement, and the importance of maintaining a strong and integrated North American agricultural supply chain. Travelling with the Minister were members of Canadian industry, including the Canadian Cattlemen's Association, the Canadian Sheep Federation, Canada Beef and the Canadian Pork Council.
Quote
"Canada and Mexico's strong, integrated markets provide an excellent trade environment for our quality agricultural products while supporting the growth of middle-class jobs in both countries. Our bilateral trade has increased substantially over the years and we intend to continue building on our prosperous relationship to help achieve our goal of $75 billion in agricultural exports."
- The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
Quick facts
- Mexico is an important market for Canadian agriculture and agri-food, with CDN$1.7 billion worth of agri-food products shipped last year.
- Over 12% of Mexico's imported beef comes from Canada, as does 97% of their imported canola.
Associated links
- Agriculture and Food Market Intelligence - Mexico
- Canada-Mexico Trade - Fact Sheets
- Canadian Trade Commissioner Service - Mexico
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SOURCE Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
For further information: Guy Gallant, Director of Communications, Office of the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, 613-773-1059; Media Relations, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, 613-773-7972, 1-866-345-7972
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