In a significant move amidst ongoing trade tensions, Canada has temporarily halted imports from the United States' largest pork processing facility, operated by Smithfield Foods in Tar Heel, North Carolina.
The suspension stems from a trade dispute between Washington and Ottawa over tariffs, marking another challenge for America's agricultural sector. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) clarified that the suspension aligns with standard protocols, triggered by three noncompliance issues within six months, and is not directly related to recent trade activities.
As a result, Smithfield Foods faces a restricted market for its pork products in Canada, which was the fifth-largest export market for U.S. pork last year, valued at approximately $850 million. The USDA is collaborating with Smithfield to address the compliance issues and develop a corrective action plan, which, once approved by Canadian authorities, may restore the plant's export eligibility.
Smithfield spokesperson Jim Monroe stated, "The issue pertains to a limited number of certain offal shipments." Meanwhile, U.S. pork maintains a strong presence in Canadian retail and foodservice sectors, despite the recent setback.
This development occurs shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump exempted goods from Canada and Mexico from the 25 percent tariffs imposed earlier, under a North American trade pact, providing temporary relief to affected industries.
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Canada suspends imports from biggest U.S. pork processing plant
cgtn.com
