TPP deal a boost for Riverina: McCormack
TODAY’S historic 12 country trade deal, known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) has been welcomed by The Nationals’ Federal Member for Riverina, Michael McCormack.
“The TPP deal includes many commodities we produce in the Riverina and is good news for our farmers,” Mr McCormack said.
“Barley, beef, dairy, rice, wheat and wine are all key commodities which will have tariffs reduced and access to new markets under the TPP deal and this is all beneficial for Riverina producers.”
Mr McCormack said the diversity of the Riverina’s produce means there are increased opportunities for export and local jobs with the new trade deal.
“The Riverina is a vast agricultural region and there are a number of new opportunities for local farmers to increase their production and exports to new markets,” Mr McCormack said.
“The Government understands the importance of ensuring our farmers have the best opportunities to sell their food and fibre, which is the envy of the world, to markets across the globe.”
Mr McCormack praised the inclusion of rice in the TPP arrangements.
“Rice is a challenging commodity to include in trade negotiations and our region, which is one of the largest rice producers in the country, will see significant benefit from greater trade with Japan,” Mr McCormack said.
“This deal also sees a reduction in the duties on paper and paperboard, which could potentially lead to a boost for Australian exporters – particularly Visy, which has its main plant at Tumut.”
Today’s historic deal follows the Government signing preferential trade agreements with Japan, South Korea and China since 2013.
“We are a Government which puts farmers at the forefront and wants to grow local industries by opening up markets for our premium produce across the globe,” Mr McCormack said.
The TPP arrangements for specific commodities are over page.
ENDS