Thank you, Gary.
Thank you to this committee for the invitation to be here today.
On the import side, we do import a small amount of vegetables from Jordan. In recent years, agricultural imports were between $1 million and $1.5 million, mainly cucumbers and gherkins.
Exports are of more interest to us as Canadian farmers. In 2008, agricultural exports to Jordan were over $12 million, mostly chickpeas and lentils. It is a growing market for us. In 2007 alone, Jordan was Canada's largest chickpea market, importing over 10,000 tonnes. In terms of crops, we also export canary seed, dry beans, and sunflower seed. Jordan is also a small market for our wheat exports. Other key agricultural exports include frozen french fries, animal feed, and prepared foods.
Currently Canadian agricultural exports face tariffs as high as 30% into Jordan. This agreement will do two things. First, it will eliminate tariffs on the vast majority of Canadian exports to Jordan, directly benefiting Canadian exporters and farmers. Secondly, it will give us preferential access over competitors. No major competitors, such as Australia, have this deal. The U.S. is not a major exporter to Jordan at this time.
While the immediate trade gains don't appear as large as they are with other countries, we feel there are three strategic points in our favour.
First off, Jordan acts as a trading and distribution hub into the Middle East, with easy access to a number of other countries. Jordan has a relatively moderate leader and a stable government. Outside of the United States, we will be one of the few agricultural exporters with a free trade agreement.
Secondly, Jordan has challenges being self-sufficient in agriculture due to a lack of water. A trade deal, therefore, makes good sense. When we export our agricultural goods, we are not displacing local produce or affecting local farmers.
Lastly, Jordan with its population of six million people is a foothold into a larger trading body. The Gulf Cooperation Council consists of the nations of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This group has a population of 40 million people, and this agreement gives us a foot in the door for a future deal.
In summary, there are several positives for Canadians: new market opportunities, new partnerships, new customers, and enhanced visibility for Canadian companies. Therefore, on behalf of the 80,000 successful farmers we represent, we strongly encourage you to support this trade agreement.
Thank you for the opportunity to be here today. We look forward to your questions.