Agriculture committee  Yes, I would agree with that comment. I believe it started out with the detection, but the way it was communicated kind of created the opportunity for it to become more than a scientific conversation.

Agriculture committee  Thank you very much, Mr. Chair and members of this committee, for inviting me to speak today regarding the current crisis that the Prince Edward Island potato industry is facing. I know that other speakers have talked about the fungus. It's a disease that we've been dealing wit

International Trade committee  I guess I can start off. I would say all of the above, and we certainly do. On your list, I just want to point out at the start that I can't stress enough the importance of addressing phytosanitary-type issues—

International Trade committee  —when it comes to potatoes, because it becomes very political. I heard you ask an excellent question earlier about non-tariff trade barriers. There are lots of opportunities for those with potatoes. So I can't stress enough the importance of adequate resources at the CFIA in the

International Trade committee  I don't believe so, and again, I was just acknowledging how important the relationship we have with them is—

International Trade committee  Having said that, we want also to diversify our markets, and it would be good to have other customers as well.

International Trade committee  Are you stating that they would still be signing it?

International Trade committee  There is also a possibility that they may not sign it.

International Trade committee  Yes, I would say it depends on how the U.S. would view that. That is how I would answer that in a short answer.

International Trade committee  That's my answer.

International Trade committee  Are you specifically asking about processed potatoes?

International Trade committee  I know you spoke with Cavendish Farms yesterday. They would be much better qualified to talk about the value of the processing business. Certainly, I could speak from a seed and fresh perspective, and the question, just so I'm clear, referred specifically to Japan?

International Trade committee  Yes. To answer your question, that would be.... For example, the U.S. is currently selling $9.3 million there. I would say there is at least a $9.3-million opportunity there. That is a good example for this agreement, but I could also probably point out other countries, such as T

International Trade committee  With the TPP in particular, again noting that it's important that through the agreement we maintain the existing business we do with the U.S., just to point out that it's obviously a very significant market for us. Another one I'll bring up is Japan. Most certainly Japan already

International Trade committee  Yes. India, I believe—I'd have to call a friend—might be the second-largest potato producer in the world. Don't quote me on that. It's a very large producer. There are opportunities, yes. Seed potatoes, new varieties that can provide for specific needs are an opportunity. P.E.I.