NewsLine by Cole's Ag on January 27, 2026, 7:00am

Canada Grains Council calls for strong action to address innovation-related trade barriers facing Canadian grain exports to the EU

Jan. 27, 2026 (Ottawa, ON) — The Canada Grains Council (CGC) has released a new white paper calling for stronger Canadian leadership to address emerging innovation-related trade barriers in the European Union (EU) that threaten the competitiveness of Canada’s grain exports.

The paper examines how increasing regulatory divergence—particularly in the EU—is creating uncertainty for Canadian exporters and limiting agriculture’s ability to support Canada’s trade diversification and economic growth objectives.

“As Canada looks to diversify trade and strengthen economic resilience, agriculture must be part of the solution,” said Erin Gowriluk, President of the Canada Grains Council. “Science-based, risk-based regulation is essential to maintaining market access and ensuring Canadian farmers can continue to innovate.”

The white paper warns that the EU’s hazard-based regulation and move towards pesticide reciprocity measures could restrict Canadian exports produced using crop protection tools approved as safe by Canadian regulators, setting a trade restrictive precedent that could spread to other key markets for Canadian grain.

To address these risks, the white paper outlines two key recommendations for the Government of Canada:

Establish and lead a coalition of like-minded countries to defend science- and risk- based regulation and promote trade-facilitative approaches to crop protection standards, including improved international alignment on maximum residue levels (MRLs).
Fully utilize existing bilateral mechanisms, including those under the Canada–European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), to challenge innovation-related trade barriers and oppose the EU’s pesticide reciprocity approach.

“Canada has an opportunity to lead globally on science-based trade,” Gowriluk said. “By working with trusted partners, we can protect export markets, support innovation and strengthen agriculture’s contribution to Canada’s economy.”

Read the White Paper (PDF)

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For more information, please contact:

Erin Gowriluk
President
Canada Grains Council
343-549-4767 | erin@canadagrainscouncil.ca

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on January 21, 2026, 9:00am

Swine Innovation Porc to Host Webinar Examining the Impact of Pork Research in Canada

Jan. 21, 2026 (Ottawa, Ont.) – Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) will host a national webinar on February 18 at 11:00 a.m. ET to present and discuss the findings of its latest Impact Assessment, which evaluates the economic, innovation, and sector-wide impacts of pork research investment in Canada.

Titled From Research to Results: Measuring the Impact of Pork Research in Canada, the webinar will feature the report’s authors — Stuart J. Smyth, Peter W.B. Phillips, and David Castle — who will share key insights from their analysis and explore what the findings mean for producers, industry leaders, and policymakers navigating today’s challenging operating environment.

The Impact Assessment examines how research investments have supported productivity, competitiveness, and long-term resilience across the Canadian pork value chain, providing evidence to inform future research priorities and funding decisions.

“Producers are facing unprecedented pressures, and understanding the real value of research has never been more important,” said Daniel Ramage, General Manager of Swine Innovation Porc. “This assessment provides clear, data-driven evidence of how research investments translate into tangible outcomes for the pork sector, and this webinar is an opportunity to share those insights directly with industry stakeholders.”

The webinar will explore the measurable returns generated by pork research, including economic impacts, innovation outcomes, and broader benefits to the sector. It will also highlight how coordinated, industry-driven research can help address current challenges while positioning the sector for long-term success.

“This work reinforces the importance of strategic, nationally coordinated research investment,” said Mark Ferguson, Chair of Swine Innovation Porc. “By measuring impact and learning from past investments, we can ensure that research dollars are focused where they deliver the greatest value for producers and processors across Canada.”

The session will include a presentation by the authors followed by a moderated discussion, offering participants the opportunity to better understand the findings and their implications for the future of pork research in Canada. A French live translation will also be available for participants.

To register for this webinar, click here.

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About Swine Innovation Porc:

Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) is dedicated to driving innovation and progress in the Canadian pork industry. Through collaboration, funding research and promoting knowledge transfer, SIP works towards ensuring the sustained success of the Canadian pork sector. Learn more at swineinnovationporc.ca.

For more information, contact:

Cole Christensen
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Swine Innovation Porc
cchristensen@swineinnovationporc.ca
1 (403) 589-3529

Swine Innovation Porc tiendra un webinaire sur l’impact de la recherche porcine au Canada

Le 21 janvier 2026 (Ottawa, Ont.) – Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) tiendra un webinaire national le 18 février à 11 h 00 (heure de l’Est) afin de présenter et de discuter des conclusions de sa plus récente évaluation d’impact, qui mesure les impacts sur l’économie, l’innovation et sur l’ensemble du secteur des investissements en recherche porcine au Canada.s

Intitulé « De la recherche aux résultats : mesurer l’impact de la recherche porcine au Canada », le webinaire mettra en vedette les auteurs du rapport, Stuart J. Smyth, Peter W.B. Phillips et David Castle, qui partageront les principales conclusions de leur analyse et exploreront ce que ces résultats signifient pour les producteurs, les leaders de l’industrie et les responsables des politiques qui naviguent dans l’environnement opérationnel difficile d’aujourd’hui.

L’évaluation d’impact examine comment les investissements dans la recherche ont favorisé la productivité, la compétitivité et la résilience à long terme dans l’ensemble de la chaîne de valeur du porc canadien, fournissant ainsi des données probantes qui éclaireront les priorités futures en matière de recherche et les décisions de financement.

« Les producteurs sont confrontés à des pressions sans précédent, et il n’a jamais été aussi important de comprendre la valeur réelle de la recherche », a déclaré Daniel Ramage, directeur général de Swine Innovation Porc. « Cette évaluation fournit des preuves claires, fondées sur des données, de la manière dont les investissements en recherche se traduisent par des résultats tangibles pour le secteur porcin, et ce webinaire est l’occasion de partager ces informations directement avec les acteurs du secteur. »

Le webinaire portera sur les retombées mesurables générées par la recherche porcine, notamment les impacts économiques, les résultats en matière d’innovation et les avantages plus larges pour le secteur. Il mettra également en lumière la façon dont une recherche coordonnée et guidée par l’industrie peut aider à relever les défis actuels tout en positionnant le secteur en vue d’une réussite à long terme.

« Ce travail réaffirme l’importance d’investissements stratégiques en recherche, coordonnés à l’échelle nationale », a déclaré Mark Ferguson, président de Swine Innovation Porc. « En mesurant l’impact et en tirant des leçons des investissements passés, nous pouvons nous assurer que les fonds consacrés à la recherche sont affectés là où ils apportent le plus de valeur aux producteurs et aux transformateurs partout au Canada. »

La séance comprendra une présentation par les auteurs, suivie d’une discussion animée, offrant aux participants l’occasion de mieux comprendre les résultats et leurs implications pour l’avenir de la recherche porcine au Canada. Une traduction simultanée en français sera également offerte aux participants.

Pour vous inscrire à ce webinaire, cliquez ici.

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À propos de Swine Innovation Porc :

Swine Innovation Porc se consacre à stimuler l’innovation et le progrès dans l’industrie porcine canadienne. Grâce à la collaboration, au financement de la recherche et à la promotion du transfert des connaissances, SIP œuvre pour assurer le succès durable du secteur porcin canadien. Pour en savoir plus, consultez le site swineinnovationporc.ca.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez contacter :

Cole Christensen
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Swine Innovation Porc
cchristensen@swineinnovationporc.ca
1 (403) 589-3529

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on January 19, 2026, 11:27am

Canada’s Agri-Food Exporters Welcome Pragmatic Engagement with China

Jan. 19, 2026 (Ottawa, Ont.) – The Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance welcomes renewed, pragmatic engagement with China that marks an important first step toward restoring stability and predictability in the bilateral trading relationship despite remaining market access challenges.

Canadian agri-food exporters have faced prolonged uncertainty in recent years as market access barriers and sudden trade disruptions have limited their ability to serve customers in one of the world’s largest agricultural markets. Against that backdrop, renewed dialogue, reduced tariffs and progress on unresolved issues is a positive development for the sector.

“The Prime Minister has shown leadership that creates new opportunity for the Canadian agri-food industry” said Greg Northey, President of CAFTA. “We have long called on the Canadian government to engage with China to support our ability to export to China without trade barriers – last week’s developments are a breath of fresh air.”

Stable and predictable access to international markets is essential for Canada’s export-oriented agri-food sector. Exporters rely on clear, rules-based trade frameworks to make long-term investment, production, and supply chain decisions that support jobs and economic activity across the country.

“The potential for more Canada-China agri-food trade is vast as Canada produces the products that Chinese consumers want to purchase” added Michael Harvey, executive director of CAFTA. “Continued engagement with China by government officials at all levels will be required to seize the momentum of this new era.”

CAFTA encourages continued engagement between Canada and China to ensure that commitments are implemented and that remaining market access barriers across the agri-food sector are addressed. Ongoing dialogue and follow-through will be critical to rebuilding exporter confidence and strengthening Canada’s position in global agri-food markets.

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About CAFTA:
The Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA) is a coalition of national and regional organizations that advocate for a more open, rules-based, and fair international trading environment for Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sectors. CAFTA’s members include the beef, pork, grains, oilseed, sugar, and processed food industries, who together contribute significantly to Canada’s economy and food security. For more information, visit www.cafta.org.

For more information, please contact:
Hana Sabah
Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA)
514-834-8841 | info@cafta.org

Les exportateurs agroalimentaires canadiens saluent l’engagement pragmatique avec la Chine

Le 19 janvier 2026 (Ottawa, Ont.) – L’Alliance canadienne du commerce agroalimentaire (ACCA) se réjouit de la reprise de l’engagement pragmatique avec la Chine, qui constitue une première étape importante vers le rétablissement de la stabilité et de la prévisibilité des relations commerciales bilatérales, malgré les difficultés d’accès au marché qui persistent.

Ces dernières années, les exportateurs agroalimentaires canadiens ont fait face à une incertitude prolongée, les obstacles à l’accès au marché et les perturbations commerciales soudaines ayant limité leur capacité à servir leurs clients sur l’un des plus grands marchés agricoles au monde. Dans ce contexte, la reprise du dialogue, la réduction des tarifs douaniers et les progrès réalisés sur les questions en suspens représentent une évolution positive pour le secteur.

« Le premier ministre a fait preuve d’un leadership qui ouvre de nouvelles perspectives à l’industrie agroalimentaire canadienne », a déclaré Greg Northey, président de l’ACCA. « Nous avons longtemps exhorté le gouvernement canadien à dialoguer avec la Chine afin de soutenir notre capacité d’exporter vers ce pays sans barrières commerciales – les développements de la semaine dernière sont un véritable soulagement. »

Un accès stable et prévisible aux marchés internationaux est essentiel pour le secteur agroalimentaire canadien, tourné vers l’exportation. Les exportateurs comptent sur des cadres commerciaux clairs et fondés sur des règles pour prendre des décisions à long terme en matière d’investissement, de production et de chaîne d’approvisionnement, ce qui soutient l’emploi et l’activité économique partout au pays.

« Le potentiel d’accroissement des échanges agroalimentaires entre le Canada et la Chine est immense, car le Canada produit les produits que les consommateurs chinois souhaitent acheter », a ajouté Michael Harvey, directeur général de l’ACCA. « Un dialogue continu avec la Chine, de la part des représentants gouvernementaux à tous les niveaux, sera nécessaire pour tirer parti de cette nouvelle dynamique. »

L’ACCA encourage la poursuite du dialogue entre le Canada et la Chine afin d’assurer la mise en oeuvre des engagements et la levée des obstacles persistants à l’accès aux marchés dans le secteur agroalimentaire. Un dialogue continu et un suivi rigoureux seront essentiels pour rétablir la confiance des exportateurs et renforcer la position du Canada sur les marchés agroalimentaires mondiaux.

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À propos de l’ACCA
L’Alliance canadienne du commerce agroalimentaire (ACCA) est une coalition d’organisations nationales et régionales qui militent en faveur d’un environnement commercial international plus ouvert, plus réglementé et plus équitable pour les secteurs agricole et agroalimentaire du Canada. Les membres de la CAFTA comprennent les industries du boeuf, du porc, des céréales, des oléagineux, du sucre et des aliments transformés qui, ensemble, contribuent de manière significative à l’économie et à la sécurité alimentaire du Canada. Pour plus d’informations, consultez le site www.cafta.org.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez contacter
Hana Sabah
Alliance canadienne du commerce agroalimentaire (ACCA)
514-834-8841 | info@cafta.ca

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on January 16, 2026, 2:39pm

Grain Growers of Canada Statement on Canada–China Trade Developments

OTTAWA, Jan. 16, 2026 – Grain Growers of Canada welcomes renewed engagement between Canada and China, including Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to Beijing and today’s announcement of preliminary steps to de-escalate recent trade tensions.

For Canada’s grain farmers, restoring predictability and access to key export markets matters. China is Canada’s second-largest grain market, and prolonged trade disruptions have had real consequences on farm revenues, cash flow, and confidence. Any progress that lowers barriers for Canadian agricultural products, including canola and pulses, is a positive step for farmers who depend on stable, rules-based trade.

Grain Growers of Canada has consistently called for pragmatic engagement with both the United States and China to protect tariff-free access and prevent farmers from becoming collateral damage in broader geopolitical disputes. Over 70 percent of the grain grown in Canada is exported, and there are simply no alternatives that can replace markets of this scale.

At the same time, renewed engagement must be grounded in predictability and follow-through. Canadian farmers need assurance that market access will be durable, transparent, and insulated as much as possible from future political escalation. Ongoing issues around trade enforcement, regulatory certainty, and the treatment of Canadian exports will require continued, steady government attention.

As discussions continue following this week’s announcements, Grain Growers of Canada urges the federal government to keep agriculture front and centre, work closely with producers and exporters, and ensure that progress translates into reliable market access at the farm gate.

Canadian grain farmers are ready to supply global markets. What they need from government is consistency, certainty, and a clear commitment to keeping trade working.

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About Grain Growers of Canada (GGC):
As the national voice for Canada’s grain farmers, Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) represents over 100,000 producers through our 15 national, provincial and regional grower groups. Our members steward 120 million acres of land to grow food for Canadians and for 160 countries around the world, creating $45 billion in export value annually. As the farmer-driven association for the grains sector, GGC champions federal policies that support the competitiveness and profitability of grain growers across Canada.

For more information, please contact:
Hana Sabah
Senior Communications Manager
Grain Growers of Canada
514-834-8841 | hana@graingrowers.ca

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on January 8, 2026, 12:48pm

Grain Farmers of Ontario Joins Grain Growers of Canada, Strengthening National Advocacy

Jan. 8, 2026 (Ottawa & Guelph, Ont.) — Canada’s grain sector is strengthening its national advocacy voice as Grain Farmers of Ontario formally joins Grain Growers of Canada, with federal decisions on trade, transportation, research, and infrastructure taking centre stage.

Grain Growers of Canada represents grain farmers through its national, provincial, and regional member organizations, bringing a unified national voice to federal discussions on behalf of grain producers across the country. For nearly 25 years, the organization has advocated for the grain sector’s competitiveness and long-term viability, advancing policy grounded in on-farm realities for a sector generating $45 billion in annual exports.

“For decades, grain farmers have been dealing with the fallout of long-standing issues that have been left unresolved,” said Scott Hepworth, chair, Grain Growers of Canada. “Global market instability is exposing cracks across the system, and Grain Farmers of Ontario joining Grain Growers of Canada reflects just how broad these pressures are and why a unified national voice, representing every major grain-producing region, is critical now.”

Ontario is one of Canada’s largest grain-producing provinces and a critical contributor to the country’s export economy. Grain Farmers of Ontario joins Grain Growers of Canada alongside its 14 other grain grower groups from across the country, strengthening national representation to ensure the sector can continue to move grain efficiently, compete internationally, and respond to changing market conditions.

“Ontario’s grain farmers are strongest when we stand united with our peers across Canada,” said Jeff Harrison, chair, Grain Farmers of Ontario. “Joining the Grain Growers of Canada is a strategic decision that reflects today’s political landscape and positions all grain farmers for long-term success. We bring deep expertise and a strong voice to national discussions, and we are committed to working collaboratively to advance policies that benefit farmers from coast to coast.”

Together, Grain Farmers of Ontario and Grain Growers of Canada will work to ensure federal policy frameworks governing a wide range of critical topics – such as trade, transportation, research, and infrastructure – reflect the operational realities of grain farming and the consequences those decisions carry for Canada’s export economy.

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About Grain Farmers of Ontario:
Grain Farmers of Ontario is the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat farmers. The crops they grow cover more than six million acres of farmland, generate over $4.1 billion in production value, contribute over $27 billion in economic output, and support more than 90,000 jobs across the province.

For more information, please contact:
Hana Sabah
Senior Communications Manager
Grain Growers of Canada
514-834-8841 | hana@graingrowers.ca

Susan Blundell
Director, Communications
Grain Farmers of Ontario
226-820-6641 | sblundell@gfo.ca media@gfo.ca

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on January 6, 2026, 2:00pm

Swine Innovation Porc announces first projects under national “Advancing Swine Research” initiative

Jan. 6, 2026 (Ottawa, Ont.) – Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) is pleased to announce four research projects under its Advancing Swine Research Call for Proposals, a national initiative designed to strengthen the resiliency, sustainability, and competitiveness of Canada’s pork sector.

Supported by the Pork Promotion and Research Agency (PPRA), the projects announced today represent the first set of approved investments under a highly competitive, industry-guided research call. Additional approved projects will be announced as partner co-funding decisions are finalized.

For the four projects announced today, SIP will invest up to $488,347, mobilizing up to $1.18 million in total project funding to advance innovation across priority areas including housing systems, animal health, energy efficiency, and product quality.

“SIP is proud to lead this national research effort that channels research investments into meaningful, targeted impact for producers and processors,” said Mark Ferguson, Chair of SIP. “This call delivered exceptional proposals from across Canada, and the projects we are advancing will help producers meet today’s challenges while positioning the sector for long-term success.”

Projects were selected through a rigorous review process informed by industry input and scientific expertise, ensuring research outcomes are relevant, impactful, and positioned to deliver value back to producers and processors.

The projects will explore innovations such as alternative lactation housing systems, vaccine development for PEDV and PDCoV, passive barn-cooling technologies to reduce heat stress, and advanced food-safety interventions to improve pork quality.

“This announcement reflects important outcomes from a structured, nationally co-ordinated approach to deploying industry-driven research,” said Daniel Ramage, General Manager of SIP. By working closely with provincial pork organizations, industry partners and the PPRA, we are ensuring every research dollar supports practical solutions that deliver value back to producers and processors.”

The Advancing Swine Research initiative supports one to three-year projects running from 2025 to 2028 and involves collaboration among leading research institutions across Canada.

To learn more about the Advancing Swine Research Call for Proposals and the projects announced today, visit research.swineinnovationporc.ca.

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About Swine Innovation Porc:

For further information, contact:

Cole Christensen
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Swine Innovation Porc
info@swineinnovationporc.ca
1 (403) 589-3529

Swine Innovation Porc annonce les premiers projets dans le cadre de l’initiative nationale « Faire progresser la recherche porcine »

6 janvier 2026 (Ottawa, Ont.) – Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) est heureuse d’annoncer quatre projets de recherche dans le cadre de son appel de propositions « Faire progresser la recherche porcine», une initiative nationale visant à renforcer la résilience, la durabilité et la compétitivité du secteur porcin canadien.

Soutenus par l’Office canadien de promotion et de recherche pour le porc (OCPRP), les projets annoncés aujourd’hui constituent la première série d’investissements approuvés à l’issue d’un appel à projets de recherche hautement concurrentiel, guidé par l’industrie. D’autres projets approuvés seront annoncés dès que les décisions de cofinancement des partenaires seront finalisées.

Pour les quatre projets annoncés aujourd’hui, SIP investira jusqu’à 488 347 $, mobilisant ainsi jusqu’à 1,18 million $ en financement total des projets afin de stimuler l’innovation dans des domaines prioritaires, notamment les systèmes de logement, la santé animale, l’efficacité énergétique et la qualité des produits.

« SIP est fier de diriger cet effort de recherche national qui canalise les investissements dans la recherche vers des résultats significatifs et ciblés pour les producteurs et les transformateurs », a déclaré Mark Ferguson, président de SIP. « Cet appel a donné lieu à des propositions exceptionnelles provenant de partout au Canada et les projets que nous menons aideront les producteurs à relever les défis actuels tout en positionnant le secteur pour une réussite à long terme. »

Les projets ont été sélectionnés à l’issue d’un processus d’examen rigoureux fondé sur les commentaires de l’industrie et l’expertise scientifique, afin de garantir que les résultats de la recherche soient pertinents, percutants et susceptibles d’apporter une valeur ajoutée aux producteurs et aux transformateurs.

Les projets exploreront des innovations telles que des systèmes alternatifs d’hébergement en période de lactation, le développement de vaccins contre le VDEP et le DCVP, des technologies de refroidissement passif des étables pour réduire le stress thermique, ainsi que des interventions avancées en matière de salubrité alimentaire afin d’améliorer la qualité du porc.

« Cette annonce reflète les résultats importants d’une approche structurée et coordonnée à l’échelle nationale pour déployer la recherche axée sur l’industrie », a déclaré Daniel Ramage, directeur général de SIP. En travaillant en étroite collaboration avec les organisations porcines provinciales, les partenaires de l’industrie et l’OCPRP, nous veillons à ce que chaque dollar investi dans la recherche soutienne des solutions pratiques qui apportent une valeur ajoutée aux producteurs et aux transformateurs. »

L’initiative Faire progresser la recherche porcine soutient des projets d’une durée d’un à trois ans, menés entre 2025 et 2028, et implique la collaboration entre les principaux instituts de recherche du Canada.

Pour en savoir plus sur l’appel à propositions Faire progresser la recherche porcine et les projets annoncés aujourd’hui, rendez-vous sur research.swineinnovationporc.ca.

À propos de Swine Innovation Porc :

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez contacter :

Cole Christensen
Directeur des communications et des relations avec les parties prenantes
Swine Innovation Porc
info@swineinnovationporc.ca
1 (403) 589-3529

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on November 17, 2025, 2:17pm

Canadian agri-food leaders in Washington to champion North American competitiveness ahead of USMCA review

Nov. 17, 2025 (Ottawa, ON; Washington, D.C.) – Canada’s leading agri-food exporters are in Washington, D.C., this week, meeting with U.S. lawmakers to underscore how the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA/CUSMA) drives jobs, growth, and food security across North America.

The delegation, organized by the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA), brings together 12 national industry groups representing Canada’s grains, livestock, food-processing, and life sciences sectors, industries that account for more than 90% of farmers and the agri-food industry that depends on trade.

“CAFTA is in Washington to highlight what the USMCA makes possible,” said Greg Northey, Chair of CAFTA. “It’s the backbone of our shared economic security, keeping cross-border supply chains efficient, competitive, and delivering affordable, high-quality food to consumers on both sides of the border.”

Canada is the largest customer for U.S. agri-food exports, purchasing more than US $722 per person in American farm products every year.

The USMCA, which entered into force in 2020, faces its first joint review in 2026, a pivotal test of North America’s ability to keep borders open and supply chains competitive. Canadian agri-food exporters are urging all three governments to reaffirm the agreement’s full 16-year term to provide predictability for farmers, processors, and consumers alike.

“Certainty is the currency of trade,” said Michael Harvey, Executive Director of CAFTA. “Extending the USMCA will send the strongest possible signal to markets that North America remains open, reliable, and ready to compete.”

Canada, the United States, and Mexico launched consultations ahead of the review. CAFTA’s submission notes that despite political uncertainty, agri-food trade has remained stable, tariff-free, and mutually beneficial, with strong U.S. industry support for rules-based trade with Canada.

CAFTA’s Washington mission also stresses the importance of managing trade, border, and security relationships as part of a single North American framework.

“Integrated supply chains ensure the economic competitiveness of both our countries,” added Harvey. “This review is the moment to double down on what works: predictability, partnership, and a shared commitment that keeps our food systems resilient.”

Representatives from CAFTA will be available to speak with media at the conclusion of the week’s meetings.

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About CAFTA:
The Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA) is a coalition of national and regional organizations that advocate for a more open, rules-based, and fair international trading environment for Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sectors. CAFTA’s members include the beef, pork, grains, oilseed, sugar, processed food and life science industries, who together contribute significantly to Canada’s economy and food security. For more information, visit www.cafta.org.

For more information, please contact:
Hana Sabah
Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA)
514-834-8841 | info@cafta.ca

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on November 4, 2025, 4:40pm

Budget 2025 Provides Clarity for Canadian Grain Farmers but Raises Concerns for Competitiveness

Nov. 4, 2025 (Ottawa, ON) – Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) responded to targeted wins for grain farmers in Budget 2025, including the permanent reversal of the capital gains tax increase, but cautioned that other measures could undermine farm competitiveness.

“Budget 2025 acknowledged the impact that the capital gains tax increase would have had on family-run grain farms across Canada by permanently reversing it,” began Kyle Larkin, Executive Director of GGC. “This will ensure that family farms can continue their succession planning with certainty and that the next generation of farmers does not pay millions of dollars more in taxes.”

The budget also allocated significant sums towards trade diversification, including in response to the challenges that growers are currently facing due to Chinese tariffs on canola and peas. This includes the creation of a Strategic Exports Office and funds for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to modernize trade tools and secure market access.

“I’m seeing first-hand how trade uncertainty is impacting grain farmers across the country,” said Scott Hepworth, Chair of Grain Growers of Canada and a grain farmer from Saskatchewan. “With challenges in the U.S. and tariffs in China, producers are under real pressure. The new investments in digital export tools and market diversification are positive steps. We need every tool available to keep grain moving, find new customers, and protect our bottom line in an unpredictable global environment.”

Infrastructure also features prominently in Budget 2025, with $213 million for the Major Projects Office to coordinate public and private investment and a new $5 billion Trade Diversification Fund to strengthen Canada’s export corridors. With nearly 70% of Canadian grain exported, efficient port infrastructure remains vital to keeping products moving to global markets on time and competitively.

“We continue to urge the government to add the Port of Vancouver to the next major projects list,” said Larkin. “It’s the single most important export gateway for Canadian grain, and its inclusion would send a clear signal that Ottawa is serious about improving trade competitiveness.”

Missing from the budget, however, was any commitment to extended interswitching, a key measure that expired in March 2025 and had allowed the sector to access competing rail lines, reducing shipping costs and improving service. “Without extended interswitching, farmers lose a competitive tool that kept costs in check and performance accountable,” Larkin warned.

GGC also expressed concern over the government’s plan to reduce Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s operating budget by 15% over three years, a move that could undermine public research and breeding programs essential to innovation and productivity.

“While Budget 2025 provides much-needed clarity for farmers, it falls short of delivering the full competitiveness framework needed,” continued Larkin. “We look forward to continuing to work with the government to ensure the sector remains competitive, resilient, and profitable to drive Canada’s export economy.”

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About Grain Growers of Canada (GGC):
As the national voice for Canada’s grain farmers, Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) represents over 70,000 producers through our 14 national, provincial and regional grower groups. Our members steward 110 million acres of land to grow food for Canadians and for 160 countries around the world, creating $45 billion in export value annually. As the farmer-driven association for the grains sector, GGC champions federal policies that support the competitiveness and profitability of grain growers across Canada.

For more information, please contact:
Hana Sabah
Communications Manager
Grain Growers of Canada
514-834-8841 | media@graingrowers.ca

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on October 14, 2025, 9:00am

Swine Innovation Porc Announces New Chair

Oct. 14, 2025 (Ottawa, ON) – Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) is pleased to announce that Mark Ferguson was elected as Chair of the organization on September 25, 2025.

“I am honoured to be elected as Chair of SIP,” said Ferguson. “I look forward to working with our members and partners towards our shared vision of ensuring long-term profitable pork production through collaborative research and innovation.”

Ferguson brings more than 20 years of experience to the role. As General Manager of SaskPork, based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, he has been instrumental in advancing numerous industry growth initiatives. He grew up on a family farm near Edgeley, Saskatchewan, and currently serves as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Prairie Swine Centre.

“The value SIP provides by bringing producer groups and industry partners together across Canada for coordinated research is key to our sector’s success.” added Ferguson. “By advancing science-based solutions SIP is helping the Canadian pork sector build on its strengths.”

Ferguson joins René Roy (Vice-Chair) and Jorge Correa (Treasurer) on the SIP Board of Director’s Executive team. He succeeds outgoing Chair Arno Schober, who led the Board since 2021. “We are pleased to welcome Mark as Chair as we continue providing leadership in the Canadian pork research community” added SIP General Manager Daniel Ramage. “We also extend our sincere thanks to Arno for his years of service to our organization and commend his efforts driving innovation on behalf of the pork value chain.”

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About Swine Innovation Porc:

For more information, contact:

Cole Christensen
Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Swine Innovation Porc
info@swineinnovationporc.ca
403-589-3529

Swine Innovation Porc annonce un nouveau président

Le 14 octobre 2025 (Ottawa, ON) – Swine Innovation Porc (SIP) est heureux d’annoncer que Mark Ferguson a été élu président de l’organisation le 25 septembre 2025.

« Je suis honoré d’avoir été élu président de SIP », a déclaré M. Ferguson. « Je me réjouis de travailler avec nos membres et nos partenaires à la réalisation de notre vision commune qui consiste à garantir une production porcine rentable à long terme grâce à la recherche collaborative et à l’innovation. »

M. Ferguson apporte plus de 20 ans d’expérience à ce poste. En tant que directeur général de SaskPork, basé à Saskatoon, en Saskatchewan, il a joué un rôle déterminant dans la promotion de nombreuses initiatives de croissance de l’industrie. Il a grandi dans une ferme familiale près d’Edgeley, en Saskatchewan, et occupe actuellement le poste de président du conseil d’administration du Prairie Swine Centre.

« La valeur qu’apporte SIP en réunissant des groupes de producteurs et des partenaires industriels de tout le Canada pour mener des recherches coordonnées est essentielle au succès de notre secteur », a ajouté M. Ferguson. « En proposant des solutions fondées sur la science, SIP aide le secteur porcin canadien à tirer parti de ses atouts. »

M. Ferguson rejoint René Roy (vice-président) et Jorge Correa (trésorier) au sein de l’équipe de direction du conseil d’administration de SIP. Il remplace le président sortant Arno Schober, qui dirigeait le conseil depuis 2021.

« Nous sommes ravis d’accueillir Mark en tant que président alors que nous continuons à jouer un rôle de chef de file dans le milieu de la recherche porcine au Canada », a ajouté Daniel Ramage, directeur général de SIP. « Nous tenons également à remercier sincèrement Arno pour ses années de service au sein de notre organisation et à saluer ses efforts de stimulation de l’innovation au nom de la chaîne de valeur du porc. »

À propos de Swine Innovation Porc :

Swine Innovation Porc est engagé à stimuler l’innovation et le progrès dans l’industrie canadienne du porc. Grâce à la collaboration, au financement de la recherche et à la promotion du transfert des connaissances, SIP travaille à assurer le succès continu du secteur canadien du porc. Pour en savoir plus, visitez le site www.swineinnovationporc.ca.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez contacter :

Cole Christensen
Directeur des communications et des relations avec les intervenants
Swine Innovation Porc
info@swineinnovationporc.ca
403-589-3529

NewsLine by Cole's Ag on September 24, 2025, 8:41am

CBRC commits $1.8 million to CDC barley breeding activities

Sept. 24, 2025 (Saskatoon, SK) – The Canadian Barley Research Coalition (CBRC) announced today it will provide $1.8 million in funding over three years to the University of Saskatchewan’s Crop Development Centre (CDC), to extend the core breeding agreement and support the development of varieties with improved agronomics, disease resistance and end-use quality.

The CBRC is a collaboration between the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission (SaskBarley), Alberta Grains and Manitoba Crop Alliance.

“The keys to past success within the CDC barley breeding program have been the skilled staff, our in-house malt and molecular marker labs and the ability to evaluate large numbers of breeding lines. This CBRC funding will support these pillars moving forward,” says Curtis Pozniak, Director of the Crop Development Centre.

“This renewed investment ensures Western Canadian farmers can expect new barley varieties from a world-class program, keeping barley competitive with improved yield and agronomic benefits,” says CBRC Chair Cody Glenn (who also Chairs SaskBarley). “The CDC is uniquely positioned to deliver effective results for Western Canadian agriculture. This funding extension will allow the program to continue delivering improved varieties and capitalize on new opportunities.”

Leaders from CBRC’s member organizations echoed this sentiment, highlighting the practical benefits for farmers.

Scott Jesperson, Chair of Alberta Grains, emphasized the real-world impact of the funding: “The CBRC’s investment in the CDC reflects the importance of providing farmers with access to high performing, resilient barley varieties. This funding will deliver on-farm benefits that help barley farmers improve yields, manage disease pressure and stay competitive in global markets.”

Building on this, Jonothan Hodson, Chair of Manitoba Crop Alliance, pointed to the CDC’s impressive history: “The CDC has an excellent track record of developing high-performance barley varieties for a variety of end-use markets. The CBRC’s continued support for this innovative breeding program will ensure barley remains a productive and profitable crop for farmers across Western Canada.”

Continuing the funding agreement with the CDC was a priority for CBRC and is in line with the organization’s goal of facilitating long-term investments aimed at improving profitability and competitiveness for Western Canadian barley farmers.

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For more information:

Jill McDonald
CBRC President
306-370-7237
jmcdonald@saskbarley.com