Agri-Food Trade Policy

Current Negotiations

Canada is a trading nation and the sustained growth and prosperity of Canadian agriculture depends on Canada's ability to compete effectively in global trade. Canadian agri-food products are of the highest quality and compare advantageously to those produced around the world. In 2008, Canadian agriculture exports totalled $39.5 billion while agriculture imports totalled $27.9 billion. Canada is the fourth largest agri-food exporter¹ and sixth largest importer², and Canadian agriculture and agri-food stakeholders have long recognized the need for Canada to be actively engaged in international trade initiatives.

To achieve a more level international playing field and greater opportunities for Canadian agricultural producers and processors, Canada is pursuing an active multilateral, regional and bilateral trade negotiations agenda.

• World Trade Organization (WTO) Agriculture Negotiations
• Bilateral and Regional Negotiations and Initiatives

1. EU, US, Brazil and Canada (based on 2008 figures): The four largest agri-food exporters are in descending order.
2. EU, US, Japan, China, Russia, and Canada (based on 2008 figures): The six largest agri-food importers are in descending order.