Thursday, April 25, 2024

Belgian Government to back free trade deal between Canada-EU

First Published:

 

[projekktor id=’25860′]

Updated:

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.

More Top News

MTO enforcement blitz in Lincoln nabs 16 vehicles from highway

A recent commercial vehicle enforcement blitz in the Niagara Region found that half the vehicles they stopped to inspect were riding dirty. As a result,...

Former SNC-Lavalin executive sentenced to prison term in bridge bribery case

A former SNC-Lavalin executive has been sentenced to three and a half years in prison in connection with a bribery scheme for a bridge...

CCLA presses for action after police chief comments on Zameer acquittal

The Canadian Civil Liberties Association is asking Toronto's police services board whether it thinks comments made by the force's chief were appropriate after a...

Hamilton MPP Sarah Jama asked to leave Ontario legislature over keffiyeh

Hamilton's independent MPP Sarah Jama has been ejected from the Ontario legislature for defying the keffiyeh ban. Speaker Ted Arnott asked Jama to leave Ontario's...

Cannabis Cupboard in Beamsville robbed for 2nd time in a month

A dispensary in the Town of Beamsville has been held up for the second time in less than a month. Niagara police say they were...

Morning weather forecast for April 25, 2024

Sunny skies and a cool high of 9°C today. Brian Wood has all the weather details for Thursday April 25th.