April 18, 2013

Canada's rapeseed exporters to have increased access to Chinese market

China has approved rapeseed imports from an additional oilseed crushing facility in Canada, , giving Canada's rapeseed growers and exporters increased access to the Chinese market.

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and International Trade Minister Ed Fast announced this on Tuesday (Apr 16).

In 2012 rapeseed added over US$1.9 billion to the Canadian economy and the expansion is expected to increase sales.

"Today's announcement is a result of continued collaboration and an important step to further expand rapeseed exports to China," said Ritz. "Our government's top priority remains the economy, and by resolving market issues in countries like China, we are helping to increase Canadian exports and deliver real results for Canadian farmers."

Canadian rapeseed exports to China have been impacted since 2009 by import restrictions related to blackleg. Since this time Canada and the rapeseed industry have been working with the Chinese to mitigate this risk. This cooperation has proved to be successful as China agreed to grant additional export access to its oilseed crushing facility in Nantong, in the Jiangsu Province. This access allows 600,000 tonnes per year on a trail-basis until a long-term solution can be reached.

"We welcome China's decision to further open access for Canadian rapeseed", said Canola Council of Canada president Patti Miller." This underscores the value of science in resolving technical trade issues, and the importance of close industry - government collaboration in building and maintaining market access."