The Canadian Press

OTTAWA: Canadian officials have slammed the door on a suggestion by New Zealand that it might push for greater access for its dairy products as the Trans-Pacific Partnership moves forward.

New Zealand Trade Minister Tim Groser says he considers the 12-country Pacific Rim trade deal to be open to future adjustments after his country failed in an 11th-hour bid for more tariff-free access for its dairy products.

But a senior Canadian government official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, says the agreement was closed to further negotiation.

The Harper government is trumpeting its protection of Canada’s supply management system in following the conclusion of the marathon TPP talks.

Canada made a modest concession by allowing imports of dairy products to rise by 3.25 per cent.

New Zealand had been pushing for more, as it also sought greater access to the American market.

 

© 2015 The Canadian Press