US President Donald Trump recently took to Twitter in support of US dairy farmers. President Trump directed, in his usual manner, his criticism of Canada’s dairy policy.

Canada operates a supply management system, regulated by their Federal and Provincial Governments. Its system of supply management is underpinned by a protectionist policy towards imports.  In mid-2016, the Canadians introduced a new milk class for milk protein products designed to favour Canadian domestic origin over dairy ingredients imported from global markets. In September 2016, the dairy industries of Australia, the EU, Mexico, New Zealand and the USA jointly called on the WTO to initiate proceedings against Canada.

Eamonn Farrell

Agri Food Policy Executive