What does the TPP trade deal mean for the Quinte region?

By Tara Henley

BELLEVILLE – In a tentative deal, Canada has become a founding member of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced early Monday morning.

This 12-country trading bloc – the largest of its kind – will potentially see a significant drop in tariffs, allowing for more duty-free imports of poultry, egg and dairy products from TPP countries into Canada. Although the government has promised farmers a compensation of $4.3 billion over the next 15 years, many farmers are still uneasy over the deal.

According to a press release from the National Farmers Union, the agreement will allow for 3.25 per cent more imports in Canada’s dairy sector. The Conservative government says this will mean cheaper products and a more versatile market.

QNet is speaking to local farmers to find out what they believe the TPP deal means for the Quinte region. More to come.