CAFTA, CPC point out economic and environmental contributions of agriculture.   Ottawa—Two more national agrifood organizations have called on the political parties campaigning in the Sept. 20 federal election to recognize the economic and environmental importance of farmers and food processors. The Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA) and the Canadian Pork Council (CPC) released their election campaign proposals which basically say agrifood should be a key component of Canada's post-pandemic economic recovery. Their positions are in line with what other national farm groups have called for and they plan to deliver their messages to candidates across the country throughout the election campaign. CAFTA President Dan Darling said his organization has five ideas that are practical, achievable and long overdue. “They will help Canada seize opportunities and create the jobs and prosperity that are so critical to helping us recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.” Agrifood exporters stand ready to work with the next government and all parliamentarians to help Canada thrive, he said. Cooperation is crucial because “the post-pandemic global economy will be more fiercely competitive than ever before and by making the right policy choices now, our sector can provide Canada a competitive edge in global markets.” CPC Chair Rick Bergman said farmers want to work to partner with Parliamentarians to deliver economic growth and prosperity for all Canadians. “Canadian pork is increasingly in demand around the world and the value chain has significant growth potential,” he said. Canada's 7000 hog producers are calling on candidates from across Canada to commit to policies that will support a value chain with significant growth potential. CPC called for Business Risk Management program changes that work for producers in need, access to skilled workers, improved and expanded market opportunities and resolution of trade barriers in China, the world's largest pork importer. It wants the government to commit $50 million to implement the Pan-Canadian African Swine Fever action plan and establishing a Canadian Foot-and-Mouth disease vaccine bank. Canadian pork producers already have one of the lowest environmental footprints in the world and producers are taking the extra steps to make it more sustainable. CPC wants farm fuels such as propane and natural gas exempted from the carbon pricing system, which impacts competitiveness without reducing emissions. CAFTA wants action on implementation issues with the free trade deal with Europe and a review of existing free trade agreements to maximize trade opportunities within six months after the election. A Chief of Trade Implementation should be created at Global Affairs Canada to better coordinate with industry, Darling said. The Ottawa group of countries should be encouraged in its work to reinstate the WTO's Appellate Body and shift from 'business as usual' policies to 21st century realities for the global agri-food sector. Canada should immediately launch trade talks with the UK and ASEAN; and conclude five FTA negotiations by 2023 with the UK, ASEAN, Indonesia, CPTPP expansion and India. Canada's diplomats should be prepared to promote the sustainability of its agrifood sector, which is backed by a robust science based regulatory system and to protect a trading environment based on rules, science and appropriate risk assessments.   Alex Binkley is a freelance journalist and writes for domestic and international publications about agriculture, food and transportation issues. He's also the author of two science fiction novels with more in the works.