Canada Looks Ready To Make A Deal On Dairy

Canada appears ready to make a deal with the U.S. on dairy access in return for dispute settlement concessions, in a sign the Canadians are increasingly optimistic about getting a new NAFTA agreement.  A three-way modernized NAFTA is looking increasingly possible this month amid reports Canadian officials are ready to allow U.S. dairy producers limited access to the Canadian dairy market.  That, in return for a U.S. concession on a key dispute settlement process.

Canada’s Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland addressed reporters on Tuesday, the anniversary of 9-11.

“Remembering today, and what happened today, maybe that helps all of us put into perspective the negotiations that we’re having.  And also put into a little bit of historical perspective the importance and significance of the relationship between Canada and the United States.  At the end of the day, we’re neighbors, and at the end of the day, neighbors help each other.”

That’s a stark contrast with earlier statements by Canada’s prime minister that there’d be no compromising on dairy.  While Canada’s politically powerful dairy producers may resist such a deal, Canadian sources close to the negotiations say Canada is prepared to offer concessions similar to those it gave the EU and Pacific Rim nations.

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