Canadian potato farmers are celebrating a major victory as Canada and Mexico have reached an agreement allowing the export of fresh Canadian potatoes to the Mexican market. For the past 20 years, the United States has been the sole supplier of potatoes to Mexico, but this new deal opens up a valuable market for Canadian producers. Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald, speaking to CBC TV, called the agreement "a very big deal" and emphasized its importance to the Canadian potato industry.
The agreement, which has been in the works for nearly three years, ensures that Canadian producers have the same access to the Mexican market as their American counterparts. A key aspect of the deal is ensuring access to the seaway, allowing for both land and sea shipments of Canadian potatoes. Mexico is expected to send Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality agents to Canada in June to conduct phytosanitary inspections before the first shipments are authorized. Potatoes are the fifth-largest crop in Canada, generating revenues of US $2.1 billion in 2024.
This agreement comes at a crucial time, with the formal review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) set to begin this week. Amidst uncertainty surrounding the USMCA review, Canada and Mexico are actively working to strengthen bilateral trade relations. MacDonald led trade missions to Mexico in October 2025 and February 2026, fostering relationships with Mexican officials. A reciprocal trade mission from Mexico to Canada is planned for May 2026, further solidifying the partnership.
The deal highlights Canada's commitment to diversifying its export markets and supporting its agricultural sector. Bill Zylmans, chair of the Canadian Potato Council, lauded the collaborative effort between industry, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in expanding markets. With the USMCA review on the horizon, this agreement represents a strategic move to bolster trade ties within North America.
