Trade pact with Mexico, Canada could boost wine, other ag products from Modesto area

Modesto-area business leaders welcomed Tuesday’s major progress toward a new trade agreement with Mexico and Canada. The two nations are key markets for almonds, tomatoes, dairy and other farm products from the Northern San Joaquin Valley. Canada is especially important for wine. The pact would replace the North American Free Trade Agreement of 1994, which President Donald Trump claims has harmed the U.S. economy. Democratic leaders said Tuesday that they would seek approval of the new agreement in Congress following assurances about labor and environmental standards.  Read more