Grain Growers of Canada opposes Bill C-282

The legislation poses a threat to international market access, the organization says

Another Canadian ag organization has come out against Bill C-282.

The legislation, which is currently in committee stage in the senate, aims to remove supply management from future trade negotiations.

Telling potential trading partners that something is off the table before negotiations even begin isn’t a recipe for success, Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) says.

“Restricting Canada’s negotiating flexibility now could jeopardize these vital relationships, especially with the CUSMA review set for 2026,” the organization told Farms.com in an emailed statement. “Bill C-282 risks closing doors to key markets, undermining the competitiveness of Canadian grain farmers, and weakening Canada’s ability to fully participate in the global economy.”

About 90 per cent of Canadian grain is destined for export markets.

In 2023, Canada exported 53 million metric tonnes of grain and related products, valued at $35 billion.

About $10 billion of Canada’s grain exports went to Mexico and the U.S.

Farms.com also asked the Canadian Pork Council for its stance on Bill C-282.

The organization declined the opportunity to comment but suggested the Canadian Cattle Association is better positioned to provide comment on the issue.

Members of the livestock industry have voiced opposition for the bill.

In a recent letter, the beef sector urged lawmakers to reconsider giving the bill royal assent.

“Ultimately, the unwavering defence of the supply management system, which is the root of Bill C-282, should not occur at the expense of all other trade and export dependent sectors of the Canadian economy,” the letter says.

Behind the policy of the bill is the politics associated with it.

The Bloc gave Prime Minister Trudeau’s minority government until Oct. 29 to pass C-282 and an old age security bill, or the party would work with other parties to bring down the government.

But senators don’t expect to study the bill thoroughly until November.