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Dairy groups excited for USMCA & enforcement

Dairy groups are thankful for Congress passing the USMCA and will be carefully watching how it’s enforced.

The National Milk Producers Federation and U.S. Dairy Export Council say there are sizable accomplishments secured on dairy in the agreement and full compliance is essential for more fair trade with Canada and to protect American-made cheeses in Mexico. 

USDEC President Tom Vilsack tells Brownfield they will be closely monitoring how Canada is upholding the agreement. “And if not, we’ll make sure that USTR is fully aware of noncompliance so they can trigger the dispute resolution process.”

President of the International Dairy Foods Association Dr. Michael Dykes says the agreement provides members a piece of mind as the uncertainty in negotiations has ended and levels the playing field between trading partners. 

American Dairy Coalition CEO Laurie Fischer says it’s been a huge week with trade agreements and the nation’s dairy farmers look forward to stability, certainty, and growth of dairy products into the markets of Mexico and Canada. 

Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative President Brody Stapel, a Wisconsin dairy farmer, says the landmark victory not only keeps dairy farmers from losing ground is critically important markets but will also bring opportunities to increase market share.

The USMCA reforms Canada’s dairy pricing system and provides exclusive Canadian market access for U.S. farmers and manufacturers as well as establishes new protections for products that rely on common cheese names, such as parmesan and feta, in Mexico.

The International Trade Commission projects U.S. dairy exports to increase by more than $314 million annually with the new agreement.