Producers in B.C.’s food and beverage sector say they are frustrated that alcohol was excluded from a new national agreement aimed at reducing interprovincial trade barriers.

The Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement was signed this week by governments across the country, allowing goods approved in one province be sold in another starting in December.

The agreement will apply to the sale of thousands of products ranging from manufacturing inputs and health technologies to clothing, toys, industrial products, tires and vehicles.

Alcohol, however, was excluded and is being dealt with separately through a memorandum of understanding among provinces.

James Donaldson, CEO of B.C. Food and Beverage, told Global News the alcohol file has been stalled for years despite repeated advocacy.

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