The changes are part of a decade-long trade dispute between the two countries over so-called country-of-origin labeling (V-COOL). Canada has, among other measures, been blocking the import of dairy products from the US for years via its own regulations.
Currently, Canadian livestock farmers can ship their animals to the US for slaughter so the meat can be marketed as ‘Made in the USA.’ Starting 2026, only meat from animals born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the United States will be allowed to carry that label.
American cattle breeders welcome the recent ruling by the World Trade Organization (WTO) on expanding the labeling. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the new final rules this week.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the rule will provide more clarity for consumers: they will know where the meat comes from. The Canadian ministers of Agriculture and Trade have expressed concerns about the plan, which they believe could disrupt the North American market.