Grainswest - Winter 2019

“With the bulk handling system, Alberta exports tend to get drawn out through western ports, so this trade deal stands to provide a great benefit to Alberta.” —Geoff Backman already in place. “Our exports to CPTPP countries are already quite strong,” he said. “This is about continuing to strengthen relationships that are already present. We export to Japan, Singapore, Mexico, Peru, Malaysia, Vietnam and Chile, and we welcome any trade deals that will improve exports to those regions, especially improved access to Japanese, a very high- value market for Canadian wheat.” Benefits to Canadian grains after implementation of the CPTPP are multi-layered. Not only does the agreement provide access to new markets to strengthen existing trade, but since there is currently no bilateral trade agreement in place between Canada and Japan—nor Malaysia or Vietnam— Canadian products going into those countries face high tariffs. “The real benefit for wheat going into the Japan will be the reduction in tariffs,” said Backman. The Canadian Department of International Trade and Investment explained that Japan will eliminate tariffs on close to 32 per cent of agriculture and agri-food products once the CPTPP is in full effect. Another nine per cent of tariff lines will get preferential tariff treatment through permanent quotas and country-specific quotas for Canada. The remaining tariffs will be eliminated or reduced over the next two decades. Canada will also have its own quota for food wheat that starts at 40,000 tonnes and expands to 53,000 tonnes Focus ® liquid herbicide delivers extended pre-emergent control in wheat and lentils. Keep tough weeds like bromes and cleavers, out of sight and out of mind, with activity from two unique groups (14 and 15). KILLS WEEDS BEFORE THEY’RE WEEDS Always read and follow label instructions. Member of CropLife Canada. FMC and Focus are trademarks or service marks of FMC Corporation and/or an affiliate. ©2019 FMC Corporation. All rights reserved. 63301-11/18