FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Saskatoon, SK – The Wheat Growers Association is calling for Canadian agriculture to be more deeply engaged in the effort to secure the future of continental trade following the United States’ decision not to extend CUSMA in its current form.
CUSMA remains in effect, but the absence of an extension creates continued uncertainty for farmers, exporters, processors, and businesses investing across North America.
“We understand that serious negotiations cannot be conducted through daily headlines, and we continue to support the people representing Canada,” said Daryl Fransoo, Chair of the Wheat Growers. “But prolonged silence also carries a cost. Farmers and businesses need confidence that Canada is fully engaged, has a clear strategy, and is using every available relationship to move these discussions forward.”
The Wheat Growers say Canadian agriculture should be viewed as a strategic asset in the negotiations, particularly because farmers and industry organizations have spent decades building trusted relationships with their counterparts in the United States.
“American farmers are not asking how they can compete against Canada,” Fransoo said. “More often, they are asking how we can continue competing together in an increasingly uncertain world. Our supply chains, research, processing sectors, markets, and food systems have become deeply interconnected over generations.”
The association says those relationships can reinforce the shared economic and food-security benefits of a strong, integrated North American agricultural system.
“Trade agreements are negotiated by governments, but enduring partnerships are built by people,” Fransoo said. “If there are conversations to have, doors to open, or relationships that can help strengthen Canada’s position, agriculture is ready. Give us the signal and put those relationships to work.”
The Wheat Growers emphasized that industry involvement would strengthen rather than undermine Canada’s negotiating efforts.
“This is not about second-guessing our negotiators or making their work harder,” Fransoo said. “It is about building the broadest and strongest Team Canada possible. Farmers, exporters, processors, provincial governments, researchers, and industry leaders all have a role to play.”
The organization is urging the federal government to provide greater clarity on Canada’s objectives, strengthen communication with affected industries, and create meaningful opportunities for agricultural leaders to support outreach throughout the United States.
“Uncertainty should not become our strategy,” Fransoo concluded. “Canada has strong relationships, a compelling agricultural story, and products our American partners rely on. We must remain patient where patience is necessary, but relentless where engagement can make a difference.”
Media Contact
Darcy Pawlik
Executive Director
Wheat Growers Association