Guelph, ON. -- Grain Farmers of Ontario, the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean and wheat farmers, today urges the Canadian government to lift fertilizer tariffs in light of a new report that highlights that tariffs are not having the impact intended, and are causing harm and stress to farmers.
A new report by StoneX showcases the harm fertilizer tariffs are doing to Canadian agriculture. The report highlights that over the past four years, the global fertilizer markets have experienced significant disruptions due to high prices, tight inventories, regional conflicts, attacks on shipping lanes, and self-imposed Canadian restrictions on free trade.
The continued imposition of tariffs on fertilizer are creating a competitive imbalance for Ontario grain farmers, as many peer countries have not followed suit, and their farmers have better access to fertilizer and can take better advantage of prices.
“The imposition of tariffs on some fertilizers has had a profound impact on our agricultural industry,” says Jeff Harrison, Chair, Grain Farmers of Ontario. “Farmers across the country are facing increased costs and tighter inventories, which jeopardize their ability to maintain productive and profitable operations. Removing these tariffs is a critical step toward stabilizing the supply chain and ensuring that our farmers have access to the fertilizers they need at affordable prices.”
The StoneX report recommends the following steps be taken to address the current fertilizer supply challenges:
Elimination of duties on Russian fertilizer imports
Build relationships with key global fertilizer-exporting countries
Implement price subsidies for fertilizer
Support new nitrogen facility builds
Incentivize existing Canadian nitrogen producers to upgrade ammonia facilities
Improve Canada’s fertilizer supply chain
Invest and partner with phosphate-rich nations
By taking these strategic actions, Canada can position itself as a leader in agricultural stability and food security. Grain Farmers of Ontario urges the Canadian government to act swiftly and decisively to implement these recommendations and support our farmers in overcoming the current challenges.
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