This Web page has been archived on the Web

Information identified as archived is provided for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Please contact us to request a format other than those available.

Canada Raises Concerns over Proposed Trade Restrictions on Seal Products

(No. 389 - December 22, 2011 - 1:40 p.m. ET) The Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, today issued the following statement on the Customs Union of Belarus, Kazakhstan and Russia’s proposed trade restrictions on seal products:

“Our government remains committed to defending Canada’s sealing industry.

“The Customs Union of Belarus, Kazakhstan and Russia has proposed trade restrictions on seal products.

“I have instructed Canadian officials to actively engage with their international counterparts to convey Canada’s concerns over these proposed restrictions and to examine options for ensuring continued market access for Canada’s sealing industry.

“The Atlantic and northern seal hunts in Canada are humane, sustainable and well-regulated activities that provide an important source of food and income for thousands of sealers and their families.”

- 30 -

For further information, media representatives may contact:

Rudy Husny
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway
613-992-7332

Trade Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-996-2000
Follow us on Twitter: @Canada_Trade