REGINA – The province of Saskatchewan is challenging Quebec over imitation dairy products.
Saskatchewan says restrictions in Quebec that prevent the sale of certain margarines, coffee whiteners and dessert toppings are hurting western oilseed producers and processors.
Tim McMillan, the minister responsible for trade for Saskatchewan, says the dispute centres on the percentage of canola oils allowed in those products.
“Saskatchewan believes in free trade, and our government is committed to knocking down barriers that harm our farmers,” McMillan said.
“We believe that these illegal restrictions in Quebec contravene rules that prohibit governments from creating barriers to trade in Canada.”
It is estimated the Quebec dairy industry makes more than 42 per cent of Canada’s dairy products and McMillan believes the Quebec government is trying to protect its own.
Saskatchewan is being supported by Alberta, British Columbia and Manitoba in its challenge to the pan-Canadian Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT).
It’s a move that is also supported by the Vegetable Oil Industry of Canada.
“We are pleased that Saskatchewan, along with other western provinces, is showing leadership in tackling barriers to trade in Canada,” said Sean McPhee, president of the organization.
“Our members look forward to the time when vegetable oil-based alternatives to dairy products can be manufactured and sold in all parts of Canada.”
A panel will hear the challenge at a public hearing in Quebec City on Jan. 8. A ruling from the panel is expected by the end of March 2014.
The AIT was set up to resolve trade disputes between provinces.
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