CPMA Engages in Round 3 Canadian NAFTA Discussions
CPMA was highly engaged in the Round 3 NAFTA discussions in Ottawa taking place from September 23rd to 27th. Overall, CPMA is pleased to see progress being made on the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Chapter as well as the Biotechnology Chapter. As part of its NAFTA submission to the Government of Canada, CPMA provided recommendations on both of those topics in order to modernize and improve the current NAFTA. Moving forward, CPMA will be closely monitoring trade remedy and other areas of potential impact to industry during discussions and working with the Government as necessary to ensure that the voice of the fresh produce is heard on any proposals that could affect the industry. Round 4 of the NAFTA negotiations will be taking place in Washington, DC from October 11th to 15th. For all CPMA activities relating to NAFTA, please visit our NAFTA webpage at: http://cpma.ca/advocate/advocacy/nafta.
“Taste of California” chef challenge dinner in Monterey at CPMA’s Semi-Annual Board Meetings a Tremendous Success
At CPMA’s Semi-Annual Board of Directors Meetings this month in Monterey, CPMA hosted their first ever “Taste of California” to highlight the exceptional produce of the Salinas Valley. The event challenged three local chefs to prepare a nutritious Half Your Plate inspired meal featuring fresh produce from our sponsors.
“This dinner was a great opportunity to spread the Half Your Plate message while enjoying the variety of produce the Salinas Valley has to offer,” said CPMA Chair Rick Alcocer. “As first American Chair of CPMA, I look forward to a fruitful year of engagement between our two countries.”
Reinforcing its NAFTA message of "do no harm" during current negotiations and to enjoy the hospitality of our industry, CPMA was also pleased to welcome California politicians to the event. In attendance were the California Undersecretary of Food and Agriculture, the Monterey Assistant Agricultural Commissioner, a member of Monterey City Council, the former Mayor of Salinas, a representative of from a State Assembly member’s office and a representative from the Canadian Consulate in San Francisco.
Three local chefs Todd Fisher from Folktales Winery, Tony Baker of Montrio, Jeremiah Tydeman from Seventh and Dolores participated in the event. Chef Jeremiah took the prize with his delicious prime NY steak, melted avocado, harissa cauliflower “couscous”, horseradish and artichoke gratin, shaved celery and cilantro salad.
CPMA would like to thank the event sponsors for their support and contribution of fresh produce: Boskovich Farms, Inc., California Avocados, California Strawberry Commission, Dole Fresh Vegetables, Duda Farm Fresh Foods, Ocean Mist Farms, Sunkist Growers, Inc., Tanimura & Antle and Taylor Farms.
Source: Canadian Produce Marketing Association
