Sask. farmers will struggle as carbon tax increases: APAS

Apr 05, 2023

As of April 1, the federal carbon tax has increased to $65/tonne, marking the first year of an accelerated price on carbon that will continue to rise by $15/tonne carbon dioxide equivalent until it reaches $170 by 2030. However, Saskatchewan's agricultural sector is feeling the brunt of the carbon tax pricing system. The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) is highlighting the disproportionate impact of this increase on farmers.

APAS President Ian Boxall expressed concerns, stating, "These additional costs come off our bottom-line because we're price takers who sell into international markets. The impact of these costs on our farm operations needs to be recognized to ensure we can remain competitive in international markets. Saskatchewan farms are going to pay over $40 million in carbon tax just to get their products to port. This is money that comes right out of rural Saskatchewan."

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Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.