Statement by Ministers Day and Ritz on Measures Taken by Canada to Safeguard Canadian Pork Industry

Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade, and Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, issued the following statement on measures being taken by Canada to safeguard the health of Canadians and the Canadian pork industry: ‘Some countries have imposed a ban on North American pork and swine products, without scientifically justifiable evidence to support their actions. We urge these countries to base their decisions on sound science.’ They added that ‘Canada’s missions abroad are providing information to trade partners and importers highlighting the safety of Canadian pork and swine products. In countries where an import ban is being considered or has been imposed, we are talking to the key agencies and officials to help them make an informed decision and recognize that Canadian pork is safe. We will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with all our partners to ensure the safety of Canadians and Canadian exports.’ In 2008, total Canadian pork exports were valued at $2.7 billion, including nearly $527 million worth of Canadian live swine exports. China and South Korea are the third and fourth largest markets for Canadian swine exports.