CDFA Secretary Karen Ross with Minister Lawrence MacAulay, Canadian Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
Today, Secretary Ross met with Minister Lawrence MacAulay, Canadian Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, reaffirming the strong and collaborative trade relationship between the two governments. Canada is California’s second largest export destination for agriculture products, valued at more than $3.4 billion.
As NAFTA renegotiation occurs at the federal level, underscoring the importance of California-Canadian trade is important. It is estimated that California agricultural exports to NAFTA countries supports more the 36,000 jobs.
In her meeting with Minister MacAulay, Secretary Ross highlighted some priority California issues related to wine, dairy and produce and thanked Canada for their ongoing friendship and continued engagement on the issues.
Over the last 15 years, California agricultural exports to the NAFTA region have expanded from $1.5 billion (2000) to $4.52 billion (2015). Approximately 16 percent ($3.4 billion) of total California agricultural exports are destined for Canada. Canada is one of the most diversified markets for California agricultural products.