en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) is pressuring the government to avoid expanding access for beef from the Southern Common Market (Mercosur, including Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay) into the Canadian market. Last week, Canadian and Mercosur representatives held a new round of negotiations in Toronto, aiming to continue advancing toward the finalization of a bilateral trade agreement.
The association noted that Canada is already a relatively large beef importer, with import volumes exceeding those of most major producing countries. It warned that further opening the market to Mercosur could harm the profitability of local producers and dampen incentives for herd rebuilding. According to the association's data, Canada's beef imports in 2025 reached their highest level since 1993, accounting for approximately 30% of domestic consumption.
Since 2021, Canada's beef imports from Mercosur countries have increased by 238%, rising from 12,000 tonnes to over 40,000 tonnes in 2025. The Canadian Cattle Association believes the United States should remain Canada's priority trade partner and questions the wisdom of granting greater access to South American competitors at a time when Ottawa is attempting to adjust its trade strategy.
According to Canadian media reports, negotiations resumed in October 2025 after a years-long hiatus, with the goal of reaching an agreement by the end of the year. Currently, Argentina and Brazil can export limited quantities of beef duty-free, while imports exceeding the quota face a 26.4% tariff.
Canadian producers argue that removing this protection would negatively impact local live cattle prices. The primary concern is not high-end cuts, but lean beef used for hamburgers and processed products. Canada focuses on grain-fed beef, while South American countries hold a strong position in lean ground beef. University of Guelph professor Mike von Massow noted that increased imports of such products could particularly impact Canada's meat processing industry.
This article is compiled by Wedoany. All AI citations must indicate the source as "Wedoany". If there is any infringement or other issues, please notify us promptly, and we will modify or delete it accordingly. Email: news@wedoany.com
