Canadian growers need more than incremental red tape reform

In today’s geopolitical climate, Canadians are placing greater value than ever on reliable access to Canadian-grown produce. To meet those expectations, growers need access to the latest crop protection tools and innovations through a regulatory system that is timely, predictable, and science-based. Canada represents less than four per cent of the global market for crop protection products, meaning investment and access to new products is not always guaranteed. At a time when global supply chains are uncertain and trade barriers are rising Canada should be increasing access to innovation and avoiding unnecessary obstacles that risk leaving growers behind.  

This is why it has been encouraging to hear the federal government discuss the need for bold change to address Canada’s lagging agricultural productivity and reduce regulatory red tape. The Prime Minister’s messaging clearly signals his intent to move the government’s agenda to drive economic growth for Canada with urgency. That agenda is being echoed by the Minister of Health, Marjorie Michel, whose recent engagement with the agriculture sector, including her appearance at CropLife Canada’s Spring Dialogue Days event, is unprecedented. She has clearly signaled the need to modernize Canada’s pesticide regulatory system to ensure it is timely and encourages access to innovation for Canadian growers.