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NAFTA one step closer

 

Trade officials appear to be a step closer to wrapping up NAFTA negotiations after last week’s meeting in Washington D.C. but no action has been taken on Canada’s dairy supply management system.  Senate Ag Committee Ranking Member Debbie Stabenow of Michigan tells Brownfield she has a lot of concerns about Canada’s dairy trade.

“This could be very positive, or it could be negative. I really don’t know any of the details despite multiple conversations.  I think the questions I have still remain.”

She says there needs to be a level playing field for farmers to sell their products and stabilizing the trade situation is important. Canadian officials have remained committed to defending their dairy supply management system throughout negotiations.

Canada and Mexico’s exemption from steel and aluminum tariffs had been tied to a May 1st deadline for NAFTA to be completed.  While Mexico has outlined retaliatory measures if tariffs are imposed, Canada calls them an entirely separate issue.

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer heads to China before the next formal NAFTA meeting on May 7th.  Lower level officials will continue to iron out technical details in the meantime.

AUDIO: Interview with Senator Debbie Stabenow