Manitoba has signed onto an interprovincial trade deal which will see agricultural trade liberalized.


The Interim Agreement on Internal Trade in Agriculture and Food Goods will mean our province plus British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Prince Edward Island, and the Yukon will take steps to harmonzie trading standards.


Heavyweights Ontario and Quebec have chosen not to at this time.


Agriculture Minister Rosann Wowchuk says this is a great first step, but more can be done including convincing the eastern provinces to join.


She adds that may be difficult particularly in Quebec's case with its protectionist attitude.


Wowchuk's more hopeful about Ontario and feels it may join some time in the future.