| Print
Update: Canola Exports to China
November 10, 2009
Canola Exports to China Phytosanitary Requirements for Blackleg
- China’s AQSIQ has issued a directive respecting quarantine measures for Canadian canola effective November 15, 2009. The measures address China’s concern with the possible importation of Leptosphaeria maculans (blackleg) – a plant disease common in canola/rapeseed production.
- The measures are highly restrictive. The Canola Council estimates they will restrict 70% of our canola seed (for processing) export sales to China.
- Canada’s canola sector is disappointed with China’s decision. Our canola industry and Government of Canada officials have worked together to propose alternative steps which would mitigate against blackleg introduction while maintaining trade. We are frustrated and disappointed that China has been unwilling to consider these steps.
- China has an obligation to be as least trade restrictive as possible with its measures. The Canola Council of Canada is concerned that China has not taken appropriate steps to limit impact on trade.
- China is an important market for Canadian canola. In 2008-09 China was Canada’s top canola seed market, importing 2.87 million tonnes valued at $1.3 billion.
- The Canola Council urges the Government of Canada to take this issue up with Chinese government officials at the highest level.
- The Canola Council of Canada is thankful for the immediate and comprehensive response to this issue from the Government of Canada. Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Ritz took steps immediately to address the issue. A team of senior Canadian negotiators have been in Beijing for the past two weeks negotiating with Chinese officials.
- Since China’s regulators are unwilling to consider reasonable risk mitigation strategies while maintaining trade with Canada, the Canola Council of Canada calls on the government to make this issue the top priority in our bi-lateral relations with China.
click here for the full update and background from the Canola Council of Canada.