Grain Growers of Canada : GGC statement on the latest round of NAFTA talks

January 30, 2018

January 30, 2018 - Last week, Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) President Jeff Nielsen was in Montreal for the latest round of NAFTA talks. Mr. Nielsen took part in events including a press conference with agriculture producers from Canada, the US and Mexico as well as a roundtable with Parliamentary Secretary Andrew Leslie.

'It is very important to ensure that we have producer voices at trade negotiations as 90% of Canadian farmers have a lot to lose if these talks fail, and so much to gain from their success,' said Mr. Nielsen, following the meetings. 'The opportunity to engage with our international counterparts reminded me just how much we have in common as an industry. The integrated supply chains that NAFTA has allowed to develop have helped all three nations grow our economies and supported the incredible innovation we see today.'

'Farmers are a trade reliant part of Canada's strong middle class,' continued Mr. Nielsen. 'We recognize how hard our government has been working to find a successful conclusion to these talks and encourage them to continue their efforts. So many Canadians rely on NAFTA for their livelihoods and it would be devastating blow to lose all it has provided.'

Download PDF