Researchers call for rapid adaptation to global trade environment 

Glacier FarmMedia—Canada must prepare for a future featuring a less friendly trade environment, says a new policy note authored by two leading policy analysts.

Al Mussell and Ted Bilyea, researchers at Agri-Food Economic Systems Research, said the recent action by China on Canadian canola illustrates their point.

They said Canada needs a “rapid pivot” to the reality of this new environment in which the agri-food industry is exposed.

“Elements of geopolitics have moved beyond the limits envisioned under the rules-based trade system,” said Bilyea.  “It has resulted in industrial policies by global powers that leave Canada exposed under the rules-based trade system, and agri-food has become a favored target in trade retaliation.”

He said Canada is likely to face more of this.

Mussell said Canada still requires the rules-based system that protects smaller economies from geopolitical intimidation.

“We need a mixed strategy, with our own industrial policies, new trade alliances, but also support the system of trade rules we have now,” he said.

The full note is available at www.agrifoodecon.ca.