For Immediate Release
SASKATOON, SK — The Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association is urging Senators and policymakers to reconsider the long-term consequences of Bill C-202, which seeks to restrict the inclusion of supply-managed sectors in future trade negotiations. While we respect the intent to shield certain Canadian producers, this approach risks undermining broader agricultural competitiveness and weakening Canada’s standing in global markets.
A Need for Balanced Policy, Not Trade Barriers
Canada’s agricultural strength lies in its diversity and global reach. Wheat producers export roughly 90 percent of their crop, and our success depends on trade agreements that open markets and maintain Canada’s reputation as a reliable supplier. Restricting flexibility in trade negotiations, as Bill C-202 proposes, could hamstring Canada’s ability to secure new opportunities, respond to shifting global dynamics, and compete effectively.
Unfortunately, we’ve already seen the consequences of short-sighted, protectionist thinking. The recent imposition of retaliatory tariffs on electric vehicles, meant to make a political point, instead put Canadian exporters at risk with no clear benefit in return. There was no scenario planning, no strategic foresight, and no serious consideration for how this move might invite retaliation against Canadian canola, pork, peas, and other key exports. For a trade-dependent nation like ours, this is a dangerous path.
Protecting One Sector Shouldn’t Mean Sacrificing Others
We understand the desire to support domestic sectors. But it is one thing to ensure producers are competitive and viable. It is another to ask Canadian families to pay some of the highest prices in the world for milk, cheese, eggs, and poultry, while at the same time restricting trade and stalling progress for the rest of the agricultural sector.
“It’s not sustainable to protect one segment of agriculture by tying the hands of our negotiators and putting the rest of the industry in jeopardy,” said Gunter Jochum, President of the Wheat Growers. “And it’s not fair to consumers, who are already paying nearly double what our U.S. neighbours pay for many staples, while other sectors lose vital market access.”
“As farmers, we depend on a rules-based trading system and the ability to pursue new markets,” added Daryl Fransoo, Chairman of the Wheat Growers. “Bill C-202 sends the wrong message to our trading partners and risks sidelining Canada in future negotiations. With the new interest in collaborating interprovincially, can we not be proactive about bolstering our Canadian sectors where we have the flexibility, as opposed to an outright degradation to our negotiating position before we even get to the table. It is critical that we maintain our credibility and competitiveness, not shrink from the table when the stakes are this high.”
Supporting Productivity, Technology, and Competitiveness
The Wheat Growers remain committed to building an agricultural sector that is productive, innovative, and globally competitive. That means maintaining the tools needed to negotiate modern trade deals, encourage investment, and ensure our products move efficiently and affordably across borders. Canada must lead with strategy, not sacrifice.
Working Together on Smarter Policy
We are optimistic about working with the new federal government to build trade and agriculture policy that works for all farmers, both in supply-managed sectors and outside of them. We believe the path forward lies in thoughtful, inclusive policy that strengthens the entire industry rather than placing sectors in opposition.
We urge Senators to consider the broader implications of Bill C-202 and to support a trade strategy that gives every farm and every Canadian consumer the opportunity to succeed.
Media Contact:
Darcy Pawlik
Executive Director, Wheat Growers Association
Email: dpawlik@wheatgrowers.ca
Phone: (306) 361-5667