The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was signed into effect by President Trump late last month. Afterwards, associations from across the industry released statements applauding the efforts of this trade deal. The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA) noted that it has long advocated for the USMCA, which maintains tariff-free trade with Mexico, while increasing access to Canadian markets.
“Mexico and Canada are crucial trade partners for maintaining the strength of the U.S. dairy industry,” remarked WCMA Executive Director John Umhoefer. “The past few years of marketplace and trade instability created challenges for dairy farmers and processors. The signing of USMCA will allow our cheesemakers to reaffirm relationships with existing customers and gain new ground in the global marketplace. We are thankful that Congress and the Trump Administration recognized the importance of the new trade deal, and urge Canada to prioritize USMCA ratification, so all nations can reap the benefits of free-flowing trade.”
In 2018, U.S. dairy exports to Mexico were valued at $1.4 billion, a press release from the association explained. U.S. dairy product sales in Canada totaled $731 million that same year. Combined, the two countries account for more than one-third of all U.S. dairy exports.
Keep reading Deli Market News for the latest updates on the dairy industry.