11/17/06 Canada-U.S. Potato Committee

Canada-U.S. Potato Committee works towards harmonization of trade. This is the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report. I'm Bob Hoff. Today's report next. Farm and Ranch November 17, 2006 The annual meeting of the Canada-U.S. Potato Committee was held earlier this month in Washington D.C. That group works on issues that will facilitate the potato trade between the U.S. and Canada. Matt Harris who heads up international trade for the Washington State Potato Commission was at the meeting and reports on progress regarding grades and standards for fresh potatoes. Harris: "The Canada-U.S Potato Committee has given direction for USDA to look at changing and harmonizing those grades and standards. They are currently out for public comment and those comments are due November 21st of this year." USDA will take the comments and rework the standard with the goal of harmonization with Canada so buyers will have confidence when sourcing from either country they are buying a similar product. Harris says the long running issue of Canadian Ministerial exemptions is also being addressed. Harris: "I believe this committee along with the negotiators from Trade Canada and USTR are coming to a point where they can agree on terms that will be beneficial for both countries." Another area the Canada-U.S. Potato Committee is working on is harmonization of chemical residue tolerances between the two countries. That's the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report. Brought to you in part by the Washington State Potato Commission. Nutrition today! Good health tomorrow! I'm Bob Hoff on the Northwest Ag Information Network.