Canadian Beef Producers Call on Federal Government to Stand Up for Industry in Mercosur Negotiations

Ottawa, ON — As Canada approaches the final round of Mercosur trade negotiations, Canada’s beef producers are sending a clear and united message to the federal government: do not sacrifice Canadian beef in a rushed trade deal.

The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) and the National Cattle Feeders’ Association (NCFA), together representing all beef producers in Canada, strongly oppose the inclusion of beef market access in a potential Mercosur agreement. The organizations are calling on the Government of Canada to stand firmly with Canadian ranchers and cattle feeders and ensure Canadian beef is not used as a bargaining chip.

“Canadian beef producers support global trade that is science-based, transparent and reciprocal,” said Tyler Fulton, President of the Canadian Cattle Association. “Canada is already one of the most exposed beef markets in the world. Adding permanent, broad-based beef access for Mercosur countries would undermine our industry at a critical time and send the wrong signal to producers who are working to rebuild the national herd.”

Canada already relies on imports for approximately 30 per cent of domestic beef consumption, significantly higher than major competitors such as the United States, the European Union, or Australia. After years of drought, rising costs, and market disruptions, Canadian producers are only now beginning to see signs of recovery. Additional low-cost imports risk stalling herd rebuilding, reducing domestic supply, and increasing Canada’s reliance on imports—the exact opposite of what the Government of Canada is intending with increasing domestic food security.

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