Thursday, April 18, 2024

Belgian Government to back free trade deal between Canada-EU

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A trade deal that’s been in the works for years is now one step closer to being finalized. A Belgian region of about 3.6 million people was able to stall talks between Canada and the rest of the European Union to the point where the Prime Minister cancelled a flight to Brussels to sign the deal today. But just after midnight, the region of Wallonia agreed to support the free trade deal, but economists say Trudeau and company shouldn’t pop the champagne just yet.

While both Belgium and it’s Wallonia region agreed to support the deal, they also sent documents containing clarifying language which could prolong the process.

“The problem is the clarifying language now has to be approved by the 27 member states of the European unit, the cabinet and Canada has to see it and possibly the provincial governments need to see it.” Marvin Ryder.

With traded goods valued around $90 billion last year, the EU is Canada’s second largest trading partner. However, Canada’s only the EU’s 12th largest partner. The deal would lift 98% of tariffs and open Canada for more business.

“For Ontario you’re looking at saving Ontario businesses now who are doing business in Europe about $100 million a year.” Brad Duguid, Minster of Economic Development.

Canadian automotive, beef and pork industries would benefit directly, while others could face challenges. If the trade deal is finalized it may change what you’re offering at your next wine and cheese party, and that could concern some local vineyards. But Marvin Ryder says the Federal government would protect their own.

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