A Canadian ag organization is pleased Ottawa has secured full access to a trade market.

Canadian Cattle Association executive vice president Dennis Laycraft says having access to global markets is critical to a thriving Canadian beef industry.

His comments come after Canada regained full access to Guatemala after 10 years of negotiations.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau announced the renewed access late last month.

With the full market access, beef, pork and poultry products produced on or after April 17, 2023, are eligible for export to Guatemala.

Guatemala is Canada’s largest bilateral trading partner in the region.

Top ag exports from Canada to Guatemala in 2022 included cereals and fertilizers.

Canada imports fruits, vegetables, sugar and other products from Guatemala.