Government of Canada Secures Agreement to Reopen Chinese Market to Canadian Pork

(Ottawa) December 2, 2009 – Merv Tweed, Member of Parliament for Brandon-Souris is delighted to announce that China has reopened their lucrative markets to Canadian pork exporters.

 “Southwestern Manitoba producers want to make their living in the marketplace,” said Tweed. “Our Conservative Government is working closely with our international counterparts to make sure our producers have access to markets and remain profitable.”

Today’s development comes after many high-level interventions from Canadian experts and Government officials. China indicates they will lift the ban on Canadian pork and pork products from Quebec, Manitoba and Alberta. Canada will continue to seek the removal of all trade restrictions and ensure that Canadian pork producers gain access to Chinese markets as soon as possible.

Tweed stated “Farmers know that this Conservative Government always puts farmer’s interests first, and I am pleased that China has decided to lift restrictions on Canadian pork products.” 

China is an important market for Canadian exporters and Chinese importers of pork and live swine, with pork exports valued at $47 million in 2008.