Source: NATIONAL ASSOC. OF STATE DEPTS. OF AGRICULTURE, 11/19/13

The Senate Finance Committee recently held a hearing regarding the Transatlantic Trade Investment Partnership (TTIP), a free trade agreement between the U.S. and the European Union (EU). Renewal of Trade Promotion Authority was discussed as a high priority topic, as well as the need for a comprehensive trade partnership that includes agriculture. The panel included representatives from the wheat and poultry industry, both of which are generally supportive of the TTIP but urged a more scientific based approach in food safety and environmental evaluations of American products by the EU.

With the recent passing of the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), the U.S. agriculture sector has gained better insight into how the EU will want to address geographical indicators (GIs). During CETA negotiations, Canada agreed to protect a list of 145 EU food products including cheeses, meats and olive oil. For example, if a non-Greek producer wishes to enter the market with a new version of feta cheese, the producer would have to label it as “feta-like” or “feta-style.” Many of these GIs are seen as generic naming practices by American producers.

To view the Senate hearing, click here.