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Dispute with India could disrupt agricultural exports

Oct 16, 2024 | 3:01 PM

The International Trade Minister issued a statement acknowledging the uncertainty the diplomatic row between Canada and India has created for exporters and investors.

The Canadian government expelled six Indian diplomats Monday as the RCMP announced there is evidence of their alleged involvement in violent crimes and extortion targeting the so-called Khalistan independence movement.

Mary Ng said the top products Canada exports to India are coal, potash fertilizers and lentils, while India’s exports to Canada include pharmaceutical products and electronics.

The latest developments suggest there won’t be any imminent progress toward the India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

Pulse Canada President Greg Cherewyk said for decades, Canada’s pulse industry developed a strong trading relationship with businesses in India built on mutual respect and trust and he remained confident in the strength of this relationship.

“In a time of stubborn food price inflation and strong demand for pulse crops, we are confident that affordability and availability will continue to drive decision making at a government level. Pulses are a staple food that are an important source of protein in India for hundreds of millions of people,” Cherewyk said in an emailed statement. “Our pulse sector will continue to supply this important market with these important products.”

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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