P.E.I. has nothing to fear from CETA, says high commissioner
British high commissioner says concerns about CETA from cheese makers 'overblown'
The British High Commissioner to Canada says islanders have nothing to fear from the new trade agreement between Canada and the European Union, known as CETA.
Howard Drake has been visiting P.E.I. to look at new trade opportunities.
Dairy farmers and some cheese makers in Canada are concerned about CETA because 17,000 tonnes more European cheese, including Britain's famous cheddar, will be allowed in Canada under this deal.
Drake said those concerns are overblown.
"I don't think you're about to be invaded by British cheddar or anything else for that matter," said Drake.
"In any trade negotiation, there are trade offs and this one is no different. I do find some of the prices of your Canadian cheese is quite eye-watering frankly. So I think a little bit of competition won't be bad for the consumer. But I don't think it's going to be a matter for farmers to fear."
Drake believes the trade agreement will be a two-way win for both Canada and the European Union.