News

USTR identifies barriers to ag trade in annual report

The U.S. Trade Representative says an array of tariff and nontariff barriers continue to overhang ag exports.

Its recently released National Trade Estimate Report, USTR identifies non-science-based regulatory measures, opaque approval processes for products of agricultural biotechnology, and restrictions on the ability of U.S. producers to use the common names of products along with difficult import licensing and certification requirements as areas that impede trade among the 65 partners reviewed.

The U.S. Dairy Export Council says some of their concerns have been incorporated into the report including issues with Mexico, Canada, China, and the European Union.

President and CEO Krysta Harden tells Brownfield USTR is currently investigating if Canada is upholding its dairy commitments in the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement. “Really to make sure they play by the rules and honor those commitments,” she says.

The USDEC, along with National Milk Producers Federation, say the misuse of geographical indications and unscientific import requirements and mandates are some of the largest barriers hindering dairy trade.