The Canadian Pork Council suggests, in the face of stable North American consumption, it’s important for the Canadian pork industry to continue its focus on sales opportunities in non-NAFTA countries.
Last year Canadian pork set new records in terms of both the volume and value of its exports.
While exports to the United States, Canada’s largest export market, declined sales to other key markets, most notably Japan and South Korea increased dramatically.
Canadian Pork Council President Clare Schlegel suggests, with demand in Canada and the U.S. holding stable, we’ll definitely need to see sales continue to rise in countries beyond North America.
“Support is vital. We need a successful WTO round from a Canadian perspective,” said Schlegel in a recent interview. “Market access is absolutely critical and the lowering of tariffs into some of these countries. We know that some of our competitors are working very diligently on free trade agreements, bilateral agreements between two countries.”
He said one example is where both the United States and Chile would get preferential access over Canadian product, a definite problem for Canada. Thirdly, the industry needs continued support from the Canadian government, especially from the embassies abroad, and trade promotion programs.
We need to increase the desirability and presence of the Canadian image, particularly in markets around the world where we’re selling through to retail.
“There are exciting possibilities, particularly in Korea and maybe even in Mexico where we can increase our sales opportunity by increasing the Canadian brand and the Canadian presence,” said Schlegel. Last year’s strong performance is a clear indication we’re putting out a desirable, consistent, and tasty product. I congratulate the industry on its achievements.