QUESTION PERIOD — Foreign Affairs and International Trade
China--Canola Exports
March 18, 2019
To the Government Leader in the Senate, I’m wondering if you could also give us an update on where we stand exactly in our discussions with China on the issue of canola. You will know the details that the Government of China has revoked Richardson International’s status as an authorized exporter. There is no evidence that there are health or contamination issues. Canola is my province’s most valuable agricultural export, accounting for $3.6 billion or 26 per cent of our total agricultural exports. If this matter is not resolved, the consequences will be massive.
Again I thank the honourable senator for her question. This is clearly a very important question for not only the farmers of her province but for the whole Canadian export relationship with China. The government at the highest levels has raised this issue. I’ve had occasion myself to raise it with Chinese officials to impress upon them this chamber’s interest in the issue of canola specifically and trade relations generally. This is a matter that the new Minister of Agriculture raised in her first meeting with a journalist as a priority which she intends to follow up. I’d be happy to report from time to time on what actions are being taken. This is a high priority on the minds of Canadians.
Of course, as you know, the timing is crucial. When I left home yesterday, the snow was nearly off the fields. Planting is going to start soon. I’m wondering if there’s anything that you know in terms of communication that might produce some immediate results.
Let me make inquiries and get back to the honourable senator. I just want to stress that this is a matter of high priority and it is related to a number of other very difficult issues in the bilateral relationship.
