Canada’s Food Security Strategy Overlooks Those Helping Farmers Use More Tech | OPINION

Canada’s new food security strategy promises billions of dollars for a more affordable and resilient food system. But investments in technology, infrastructure and production will only work if farmers have the knowledge and support to put them into practice. 

The need for such a strategy is clear. Canadians have faced among the highest food inflation rates in the G7 in recent years. Five retailers control three-quarters of grocery sales, and Canada imports 88 per cent of its fresh fruit and 72 per cent of its vegetables, leaving consumers vulnerable when supply chains are disrupted or tariffs increase costs.

In June, the federal government launched Canada’s first National Food Security Strategy, committing more than $3 billion over 10 years to strengthen grocery competition, expand food processing, increase greenhouse production and reform regulations.

The plan aims to increase the share of healthy food produced in Canada from 75 to 85 per cent by 2032, double the value of greenhouse and indoor farming, and reduce greenhouse labour and energy costs through automation.

Achieving these goals will depend on farmers adopting new tools and practices suited to their operations, soils, livestock and budgets. That, in turn, depends on extension and advisory services: the agronomists, veterinarians, government specialists and educators who translate research, regulations and emerging technologies into practical decisions. Yet across its many pages, the National Food Security Strategy never mentions these services.

The countries Canada points to as models take a different approach. The strategy credits the Netherlands with one of the strongest agricultural knowledge systems among wealthy countries. France connects companies, researchers and producers, while Japan pairs investment in smart agriculture with farmer training.

In each case, investment is backed by co-ordinated advisory systems. Canada’s strategy invests in infrastructure and technology, but says little about the people who help farmers put them to work.