As the countdown to the April 28th federal election continues, Pulse Canada President Greg Cherewyk is urging political parties to focus on global trade, specifically the challenges facing Canada’s agriculture industry.
With trade being a central issue, Cherewyk sat down to discuss what he believes needs to be addressed to ensure the future success of Canada's agricultural exports, especially pulses.
Cherewyk emphasizes the importance of expanding trade conversations beyond just the United States.
"Our agriculture industry, and quite frankly, every industry in this country, is now awake to the fact that our world has changed very dramatically," he explains. "Not only will our relationship with the U.S. be different going forward, but our relationship with the rest of the world has to change as well."
Canada is an incredibly trade-dependent country, especially in agriculture.
"We export over 50% of what we produce, and in the pulse and special crop sector, that number is over 85%," says Cherewyk. "Trade is incredibly important. We need to hear more from all political parties about what they’re going to do to engage with the rest of the world."
Cherewyk highlights the importance of three key markets for Canadian agriculture—India, China, and the U.S.
"We’ve had some challenges with these countries over the last 18 months, and we need a proactive, comprehensive strategy to re-engage with them," he stresses.
The most pressing concern for Cherewyk right now? The ongoing trade dispute with China.
"China has applied a 100% duty on Canadian pulses, which is a massive issue for us," he says. "On average, over the past five years, we’ve shipped 1.5 million tons to China, worth anywhere between $700 and $900 million annually. This has to be a top priority for Canada."
Cherewyk is frustrated by the current inability to engage directly with China due to the ongoing election campaign.
"It’s difficult to negotiate a solution right now," he admits. "But once the election is over, we need the new government to prioritize engagement with President Xi Jinping. It’s crucial to map out a path forward."
He also stresses the importance of "strategically compartmentalizing" Canada’s interests with countries like China, managing political tensions while continuing to push for stronger trade ties.
"We need to create space for governments to come together, even if that space is at the departmental level. It’s about fostering relationships between industries so that governments have a foundation to build on."
Cherewyk also calls on all political parties to acknowledge the changing global trade landscape.
"Canada is a trading nation, and we need to engage with the world. The U.S. is a vital market, but it’s creating a very chaotic environment. There are countries around the world negotiating with the U.S. or preparing retaliatory measures. We need to be part of that conversation."
He warns that industries across Canada are feeling the pressure.
"The automotive and aluminum sectors are under attack in Ontario and Quebec, seafood in the East, and agriculture, especially canola, pulses, and pork, are facing retaliatory measures from China. We can't afford to ignore these issues."
With $7 billion in trade at risk, Cherewyk stresses that this isn’t just a political issue, but an economic one.
"We need a plan. And we need to start talking about what that plan will look like in May."
As the election looms, Cherewyk is hopeful that Canadian leaders will recognize the urgency of strengthening global trade relationships and ensuring the continued success of the agricultural sector.
"The world has become more transactional than ever," he says. "Canada needs to show it’s ready to play in this new environment."