National Apple Working Group tackles key issues

The Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC) Apple Working Group met on March 11 in Québec City. This group includes representatives from each of the five apple-producing provinces including growers and provincial association staff. Ontario is represented by Charles Stevens (AWG chair), Brian Gilroy, Cathy McKay, and Kelly Ciceran.

The working group discussed:

• -  Development of a Promotion and Research Agency for Canadian Apples

• -  2024 market conditions and crop issues

• -  Trade and market trends and issues, including tariff discussions and country of origin labelling

• -  Crop protection issues and needs

• -  BRM needs

• -  New variety name and branding announced for Sunpunch™.

The working group is aligned in many areas and works well together to ensure that the concerns and needs of the Canadian apple grower are forwarded to FVGC and the federal government.

At the FVGC AGM, the main topic was the U.S. trade war and supporting the horticulture sector during this time of uncertainty. Resolutions included: