By Jamie Martin
The U.S. dairy industry is actively supporting efforts to strengthen the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) as discussions over the trade deal continue.
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and cooperative leaders have worked with policymakers, trade negotiators, and agricultural organizations to ensure dairy producers benefit from the agreement in the years ahead.
During a June hearing before the House Committee on Agriculture, Dairy Farmers of America executive Michael Lichte outlined the importance of USMCA to the dairy sector. He noted that while the agreement has created opportunities, several challenges remain.
“The underlying market distortions USMCA sought to discipline continue to affect U.S. manufacturers and global dairy protein markets,” he said. “With appropriate enforcement and modernization, USMCA can continue supporting investment, export growth, and economic opportunity for the United States’ dairy farmers and processors for generations to come.”
One concern involves Canada’s management of dairy tariff-rate quotas, which industry leaders say limits market access for U.S. dairy products. Lichte also highlighted concerns about dairy protein exports entering world markets through classifications that may avoid existing trade rules.
The dairy sector is also defending the use of common cheese names in Mexico. Industry representatives believe U.S. exporters should continue using product names that are widely recognized by consumers and producers.
NMPF Executive Vice President Shawna Morris contributed feedback during negotiations involving the United States and Mexico. Later, NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud joined trade officials from Canada and Mexico for discussions on improving and renewing the agreement.
Dairy organizations also worked with more than 150 agricultural groups to send a joint message to trade leaders from all three countries. The coalition emphasized that a strong and modernized USMCA is important for economic growth, food security, and regional stability.
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