Terry Stevenson’s Agricultural Weblog

To almost no ones surprise the marathon world trade talks, the Doha round which began in 2001 have been suspended. If an agreement could ever be worked out it would allow Canada enhanced access to new world markets that we don’t currently have. Unfortunately the trade negotiations have reached an impasse because of many issues, including trying to resolve unfair subsidies and the protection of agricultural supply management sectors.

 It has been reported that Canadian Trade Minister, Michael Fortier would immediately begin to start to negotiate directly with individual countries to secure trade agreements. Fortier did not close the door on the possible resumption of World trade Organizations talks if and when they ever happen.

 This decision by our Canadian government to move forward in light of the collapsed trade negotiations should be applauded. With 153 nations at the table and the multiple economies that they represent, it is a daunting task to say the least that a final agreement will ever be reached. One has to wonder if and when that day ever comes, whether or not that new World Trade Organization deal would protect Canada’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors.

  At least now rather than twisting in the wind waiting and wondering if and when talks will ever resume, Canada is taking a proactive approach to negotiating our own individual trade deals. Although the future of Canada’s international agricultural trade is uncertain, we are doing our best to control our own destiny and move forward working with other nations and that is a positive step.