Canada still requires the removal of specified risk material. Even though we've received BSE negligible risk status, the average cost for this disposal is around $167 per metric ton. This is putting Canada at quite a significant disadvantage to the U.S.
When it comes to global trade of our beef, there are some additional concerning examples where it seems politics is trumping science. While new free trade agreements are exciting, in reality, it often takes months or years before Canadians are actually seeing the benefit. For our sector, this is especially true with CETA, as a non-tariff barrier on cattle carcass washing is leaving us with little to no access for our beef. With the U.K. accession to the CPTPP, we are extremely concerned that this imparity will continue.
For example, in 2021, the U.K. exported beef to Canada at a value of about $16.3 million. In 2022, the U.K. exported beef to Canada, and it grew to $33.2 million. In contrast, Canada exported beef to the U.K. at a value of only $7.6 million in 2021, and none in 2022. Free trade agreements must not put the Canadian market at a disadvantage.
Another example is that our beef has been locked out of China since 2021 due to an atypical case of BSE. China has opened trade for other countries, including Brazil, which had the same finding of an atypical BSE case just this year, yet trade has already resumed.
We call upon the government to increase its efforts with the U.S. to create a seamless border that reflects an integrated North American commerce for cattle. We ask that the government deliver urgent resolution to non-tariff trade barriers that are presently impacting the agriculture sector, and proactively examine Canada's current free trade agreements to determine how to maximize the potential that lives within these agreements.
Thank you.