Friday, July 31, 2015

New Zealand sets stage for Canadian dairy concessions


New Zealand has set the stage for Canada to make significant concessions on access to the dairy market during the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade negotiations.

The New Zealand spokesman at the talks told reporters that what Canada has offered so far is so miniscule it threatens to derail the talks.

That sets the stage for Canada to make significant offers and to tell the dairy farmers it had no choice.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has made it clear he wants a deal.

The talks continue today and, if necessary, might stretch into Saturday.

Japan is also trying to hold on to protection for its dairy farmers.