Canada is now on a level playing field when it comes to exporting wheat into Columbia, our 7th largest market for wheat.

The South American country has announced that it will ease phytosanitary import requirements for Canadian wheat.

"Our Government is creating new economic opportunities for Canadian grain producers by opening and expanding our access to markets around the world," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "By increasing trade and ensuring producers can earn their living from the marketplace, we are creating more jobs, growth and prosperity for all Canadians."

The changes will provide enhanced access for western wheat and new access for eastern wheat.

Columbia is one of eight priority markets in Latin America and the Caribbean under the Government of Canada’s global markets action plan.

"Colombia is a growing market in a region of growing potential for Canadian wheat," said Cereals Canada President Cam Dahl. "Colombia is an important market and the resolution of concerns with Canadian exports to Colombia is important to increasing exports to the entire region.  We have resolved this issue because of cooperation between industry and multiple government departments."

Canada’s exports to Colombia in 2014 were valued at $348 million, a significant increase from $133 million in 2010 prior to implementation of the Canada-Colombia free trade agreement.