The Canwest News Service reports that, “Tobacco growers in Kentucky have launched a protest against the Harper government over a new anti-smoking bill they argue will lead to a ban on the vast majority of U.S. cigarette exports to Canada.”
“Two U.S. congressmen have taken up the cause of 8,100 Kentucky farmers who grow burley tobacco – used in popular American-style cigarettes like Camel and Winston – and have warned International Trade Minister Stockwell Day that Canada’s legislation violates NAFTA and other trade agreements.”
“The U.S. grievance was sparked by the introduction last month of Bill C-32, an amendment to the Tobacco Act which would ban the addition of certain flavours and additives to cigarettes and cigarillos that Ottawa said are marketed primarily at children and teenagers. Health Canada said the legislation will prohibit the tobacco industry from adding fruit and candy flavours such as chocolate, grape, banana and peach to make their product more appealing to youth.”
“Menthol cigarettes are exempt from the ban. But Kentucky tobacco growers contend the legislation has been written so broadly it could also bar American-blend cigarettes that include burley tobacco, which they say has flavouring added during normal processing to mitigate its naturally harsh taste.”
“The U.S. lawmakers have already found a major ally north of the border on the issue, enlisting the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters to raise concerns about the anti-tobacco legislation with Ottawa.”
The full article is at http://www2.canada.com/business/anti+tobacco+bill+further+tests+canada+trade+relationship/1682908/story.html?id=1682908.
