US deal on sugar disappointing

OCTOBER 6, 2015: I'M disappointed with the Trans-Pacific-Partnership deal on sugar with the United States as it does not allow the level of access the industry had hoped for.Across the sugar industry this deal has been met with mixed emotions and I feel likewise.I will be reserving my right to cross the floor on the deal, depending on the outcome of other factors plaguing the sugar industry.Overall the TPP deal for agriculture is great, but when it comes to sugar, the deal is more ‘okay’ rather than great, as the interactions with the United States have fallen way short of the mark.I'm very disappointed at how the land of the free has determined to block free trade and deny our sugar growers access to their market.Overall, the US aspect of the TPP is a $16 million benefit to the sugar industry so while it's nothing to sneeze at, it's also quite short of the mark many were hoping for.I know there are prospects for growth in the deal but it is uncertain as to whether those prospects will eventuate.There is the potential for an annual additional allocation based on US needs, and if this occurs, Australia will have the ability to supply 23% of that increase. However there is concern in the sugar industry that the prospect is a nebulous one.The outcome on other factors affecting the sugar industry will determine whether I support the deal with a vote in Parliament.I’m concerned about the positive implementation of a meaningful sugar marketing code of conduct and also a redirection of the US sugar quota to either QSL or to growers direct so we can ensure the $16 million in benefits - along with the existing quota benefit - are directly passed onto growers.The overall benefits of the TPP, which will enhance competitiveness, and promote growth, as well as providing unprecedented opportunities in the Asia Pacific Region.Detailed information on the TPP outcomes will be available progressively today on the DFAT website at: http://dfat.gov.au/trade/agreements/tpp/