Spirits Canada Welcomes Tabling of Canada - Korea FTA

TORONTO, June 12, 2014 /CNW/ - Canadian Spirits manufacturers are pleased that the Harper Government has moved expeditiously to table in Parliament the legal text of the Canada-Korea free trade agreement (CKFTA).

"We extend the Industry's deep appreciation to Prime Minister Harper and International Trade Minister Fast for moving so quickly from an agreement to a legal text ready for ratification", said Jan Westcott, President & CEO of Spirits Canada.

Key provisions of the CKFTA include elimination of the existing 20% Korean import tariff on Canadian whiskies and the protection and recognition for "Canadian Whisky" and "Canadian Rye Whisky" as Geographical Indications of Canada.

"Pre-existing bilateral trade deals between Korea and Australia, the EU and the U.S. amongst others, have squeezed Canadian products in the Korean market and we urge both parties to move as quickly as their domestic rules allow for approval and implementation of the Agreement", added Mr. Westcott.

Spirits Canada is the only national organization representing the interests of Canadian Spirits manufacturers, exporters and consumers. The value of Canadian Spirits exports surpassed $620 million in 2013 and represented 2/3^rd of all Canadian beverage alcohol exports.

SOURCE: Spirits Canada

Jan H. Westcott
President & CEO
Spirits Canada
Tel. [phone]