Border Blockades In Canada Hinders U.S. Cattle And Beef Shipments

The U.S is the largest destination for Canada’s live cattle and beef exports. According to the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, Canada exports these agricultural goods to 62 countries but is reliant on the U.S. for 72 percent of them.

Canada is facing blockades and protests regarding COVID-19 restrictions at the Coutts, Alberta and Sweet Grass Montana border. These blockages are hindering exporting and importing of meat and grain across the border, which could spell economic harm to the industry.

Shaun Haney, Founder and Publisher of Real Agriculture in Alberta says the protests are impacting both the Canadian and U.S beef industries.

“It's been a pretty divisive situation here this week in southern Alberta. You know, trade across the Canada US border is absolutely critical for Canada's economy specifically for the beef industry. That's kind of the main laneway for live cattle leaving southern Alberta to go to Hyrum, Utah,” said Haney.