May 17, 2006

Canadian live cattle export levels nearing pre-ban levels

Canadian live cattle exports to the US increased by 20 percent in March, bringing it nearer to levels seen before the mad cow ban and marking a slow but steady recovery that took nearly 3 years. 

The increase was due to increased feeder cattle, slaughter steers and heifers sent to the United States.

Canadian exports of agricultural and fishing products edged up 3 percent in March led by growth in wheat exports (18.8 percent), fish and fish preparations (5.9 percent), crude vegetable products (9.9 percent), and live animals (4.5 percent).

Wheat exports have been increasing for three consecutive months.