Trade was the common topic for agriculture representatives during recent meetings in Japan and South Korea.

Canadian Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay wrapped up meetings this week with the two Pacific-Rim countries, saying it was a chance to highlight Canada as safe and reliable source of wheat, meat, and oilseeds. MacAulay also attended the G7 Agriculture Ministers' Meetings in Japan, where he says he had a chance to talk about the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).

"At the G7 Japan was certainly committed to the TPP and it's fair to say they were keen to push the TPP and ratification of the TPP. I think every country seems to be in support of the TPP," he says.

MacAulay says during his time in Asia, he was able to meet bi-laterally with U.S. agriculture representatives, and they also expressed support for the massive, multi-lateral trade deal. However, MacAulay adds he explained to trading partners that Canada is still in the midst of consultation processes on the deal.