Canada Addresses Dairy Trade Dispute with New Zealand
On October 19, 2024, Canadian ministers Mary Ng and Lawrence MacAulay addressed the ongoing dispute with New Zealand regarding Canada's dairy tariff rate quota (TRQ) policies under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The ministers expressed disappointment over New Zealand's continued challenge to Canada's dairy TRQ system. They emphasized Canada's history of defending its dairy sector and supply management in trade disputes under agreements like CUSMA and CPTPP.
The Canadian government reiterated its commitment to defending the country's supply management system, which supports the dairy industry, farmers, and related communities. Despite the dispute, New Zealand is acknowledged as an important partner, and Canada intends to engage in the resolution process in good faith. The ministers expressed confidence that Canada's revised policies meet the obligations to address the non-conformity identified by a panel.
The statement reflects Canada's stance on maintaining its dairy industry protections while engaging with New Zealand to resolve the trade disagreement.