Bill C-79 passed its third reading in the House of Commons
By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com
Members of Canada’s ag industry are happy with the progress on an important piece of trade legislation.
Bill C-79, Canada’s bill for the implementation of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), passed its third reading in the House of Commons yesterday. MP’s passed the bill by a vote of 236 to 44.
The bill now moves to the Senate for further debate.
“Cattle feeders are encouraged to see the finish line in sight for Bill C-(79) and would like to extend our thanks to (federal trade minister Jim Carr) for your efforts on CPTPP ratification,” the National Cattle Feeders’ Association wrote on Twitter today.
The 11-country trade agreement offers trade opportunities for the beef, pork and grain sectors.
Japan and Vietnam will eliminate tariffs on some Canadian ag products within five years of CPTPP’s implementation. Exports of Canadian canola to that part of the world could increase by $780 million per year, the Canola Council of Canada says.
The bill comes into force 60 days after six countries ratify the deal. Mexico, Japan and Singapore have already taken that step. Quick ratification could help Canadian producers gain a competitive advantage.
“Considering the robust consultation process Canada has already undertaken, we urge the Senate to consider and pass Bill C-79 without delay, and ensure Canada does not fall further behind competitors,” Jim Everson, president of the Canola Council of Canada, said in a statement yesterday.
The Canadian Pork Council also encouraged the Senate to pass Bill C-79 quickly “so Canada can benefit from first mover advantage,” the organization said on Twitter yesterday.
Farms.com has reached out to other Canadian ag groups for comment.