AFRE professor joins Québec-led roundtable to boost US–Canada agri-food trade
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EmailDavid Ortega, Ph.D., recently attended a significant roundtable discussion organized by the Québec government in Detroit to strengthen cross-border collaboration in the agri-food sector.
David Ortega, Ph.D., professor and Noel W. Stuckman Chair in Food Economics and Policy in the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics, recently attended a significant roundtable discussion organized by the Québec government in Detroit. The event aimed to strengthen cross-border collaboration and identify new opportunities for partnership between Québec and Michigan in the agri-food sector.
The meeting highlighted the importance of U.S.–Canada trade during a time of significant global uncertainty. Discussions focused on shared sector priorities, the impact of tariffs and trade barriers and the need for continued cooperation to support our respective food systems.
Key officials present included Québec’s Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Mr. André Lamontagne, and Canada’s Consul General in Detroit, Mr. Colin Bird. From Michigan, notable attendees were MDARD Director Tim Boring, Michigan Farm Bureau President Ben LaCross, Michigan Vegetable Council CEO Greg Bird, MABA President Chuck Lippstreu, and MFB Lead Economist Loren Koeman.
Ortega emphasized the critical nature of U.S.–Canada trade for agricultural sectors, stating, "With so much uncertainty, maintaining strong, stable trade relationships with our neighbors is more important than ever. We had a constructive discussion about the impact of trade disruptions to our respective economies, farmers, processors and rural communities. Our shared priorities — and the challenges we face — make this engagement vital to supporting growth and long-term success for the agri-food sectors on both sides of the border."
