PROVINCE COMMENDS FEDERAL GOVERNMENT FOR SECURING CHINESE MARKETS FOR BEEF

Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud commends the federal government for working to secure market access to China for Canadian beef.

"The agreement the federal government signed with China is a pivotal step toward increasing market access opportunities for our cattle producers," Bjornerud said. "Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers produce the best and safest food in the world, and we commend Prime Minister Harper, Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, and Federal International Trade Minister Peter Van Loan for their hard work in securing this agreement with China."

On June 24 the federal government announced it had signed an agreement with China for a staged market access approach for Canadian beef and tallow. The first step in the agreement includes market access to China for boneless beef from animals under 30 months of age.

After forming the New West Partnership, Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall, Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach, and British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell travelled to China in May and met with Chinese government officials about the potential for re-opening the Chinese market to Canadian beef.

"By working together with Alberta and British Columbia through the New West Partnership, we were able to deliver a strong message to Chinese officials that Western Canada has an array of resources, such as beef, that can meet their growing needs," Bjornerud said. "This agreement with China is the result of the strong trade advocacy work of the federal government and the joint efforts of the New West Partnership, both of which are benefitting our province."

The first shipment of Canadian beef will be served on Canada Day at the Shanghai World Expo 2010.

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For more information, contact:

Tyler Hopson
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: tyler.hopson@gov.sk.ca