Canadian Cattle Genetics to Benefit Ukrainian Cattle Farmers
By Amanda Brodhagen , Farms.com
The Canadian government announced that cattle farmers will have another opportunity to sell their superior genetics and breeding livestock to Ukraine. The announcement was made by Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Trade Minister Ed Fast. The new market access deal allows Canadian cattle producers to sell live cattle to Ukraine. This new partnership is expected to be worth over $12 million over the span of three years.
"This is good news for our hard working livestock producers who can now sell their world-class cattle to the promising Ukraine market," said Minister Ritz. "Our Government will continue to create new sales opportunities for Canadian producers around the world, contributing to long-term prosperity, job creation and economic growth."
The last time Canada shipped live cattle to Ukraine was only once in the 1980’s as part of an artificial insemination project between the two countries. The Canadian government has been quick to respond to the needs of Canadian cattle producers, as the deal was made shortly after industry leaders identified this specific market as being a good opportunity for both Canadian and Ukrainian cattle producers.
This announcement is a major breakthrough especially since Canada is currently in the midst of negotiating a full-fledged free trade agreement with Ukraine. It’s estimated that agriculture and food products account for more than $22 million in export sales for Canada.