Vilsack Explains How USMCA Can Benefit American Farmers

Shortly after taking office earlier this year, Agriculture Secretary, Tom Vilsack, placed an emphasis on USMCA and how it can benefit the American farmer.

"[We want to] re-enforce our goal and our belief that these agreements need to be enforced to the letter."

With, Vilsack noted, particular focus on Canada. Specifically on dairy as the spite agreement within USMCA to improve U.S. dairy access to that market concerns arose regarding Canadian compliance.

"Whether it's wheat, dairy, any other commodity, we want to make sure that agreement that opens up new market opportunities that expanded market opportunities is actually implemented in the way it was intended."

Which lead to the U.S. trade representatives office this week requesting a dispute settlement panel under USMCA to challenge Canada's allocation  of dairy tariff rate quotas. The panel is expected to report its findings later this year.

Vilsack said the U.S. action helps to ensure Canada fulfills its commitments under USMCA.

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