FAQs

Does supply management block imports?

No. Supply management allows Canada to manage imports in a predictable manner. In accordance with WTO rules, a pre-determined level of imports enters at very low tariffs, when it is not tariff-free. Once this level of imports has been reached, higher tariffs apply. The goal is market stability for farmers, processors and consumers. Canada provides access to more dairy, poultry and egg products than many other countries. For example: Canada provides access equivalent to 5% of the market for eggs and turkeys, 7.5% for chicken, and 21% for hatching eggs. In comparison, the European Union offers a mere 0.5% access for poultry products. Canada also imports more dairy products than the United States offering over 4% access, while the United States offers only 2.75%. The Canadian government's agricultural trade position calls for all countries to provide clean market access. If all countries with tariff rate quotas offered clean access at 5%, trade could increase by 53% for cheese, 107% for pork, 94% for poultry, 44% for wheat and 99% for beef.

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