15 more establishments are now eligible to export
By Diego Flammini
Assistant Editor, International Content
Farms.com
Canadian pork and beef farmers will now have more market access to export their products to Ukraine.
Ukrainian officials visited Canada in September 2015 and deemed that 15 more beef and pork facilities may begin exporting to Ukraine as long as certain certification requirements are met.
The total number of Canadian beef and pork exporters is now up to 27 and Canadian officials are encouraged about the doors being opened for Canadian farmers.
“The Government of Canada is working to create new trade opportunities for Canadian farmers and agri-food exporters in key markets all over the world,” said Minister of Agriculture Lawrence MacAulay. “We are pleased to supply world-class beef and pork to Ukraine, maximizing export returns for the benefit of Canadian producers.”
The top five Canadian agri-food exports to Ukraine in 2014 were:
- Frozen pork (approx. $3.7 million)
- Dog and cat food (approx. $2.5 million)
- Soybean seed (approx. $2 million)
- Raw mink furskins, whole (approx. $1.8 million)
- Bull semen (approx. $1.3 million)
It’s estimated the access for Canadian beef and pork to the Ukrainian market could be worth up to $50 million annually, which will help strengthen relations.
“Ukraine is an important market for Canadian exporters and the recently concluded Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement is a testament to the strengthening economic relationship between our two countries,” said Minister of International Trade Chrystia Freeland.
Join the discussion and tell us your thoughts about Ukraine allowing more Canadian pork and beef into the country. As a farmer are you encouraged by the opportunities the new access could provide for you?