Agriculture and Forestry Minister said today he is pleased that the U.S. International Trade Commission has found that Canadian potato growers are not competing unfairly in the United States market. The investigation by the Commission came after complaints from U.S. growers that Canadian potato producers had an unfair advantage because of government support programs.
"I have always believed that Prince Edward island potato producers are competitive in the marketplace because of our high quality standards," said Mr. Hammill. "Hopefully the findings of the report will put the issue to rest once and for all."
Mr. Hammill said the Prince Edward Island potato industry is among the most self-reliant of all agricultural commodities. He said there are no significant cost advantages between the United States and Canada in potato production or processing.
"The potato industry is very competitive and the Prince Edward Island potato industry has demonstrated its ability to be competitive in domestic and international markets," said the minister.
The report said that the weak Canadian dollar is one factor that has led to Canadian potatoes selling well in the eastern United States.
"I am pleased with the conclusions of the report and hope that it will result in improved trade relationships between Canada and the United States," said Mr. Hammill.
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Wayne MacKinnon at 368-4888