Investment by seed companies in research and development in the seed sector continues to grow year on year, but more investment and collaboration is needed across the agricultural sector. When investment in research and development increases, everyone benefits from seed varieties with higher yields, better performance and quality, stress tolerance and increased profit.

The Variety Use Agreement (VUA) is a value-creation tool used to increase investment and innovation in plant breeding. It is built on the principles of value, transparency, and choice for producers. The VUA is applied to specific varieties as determined by plant breeders and their seed distributors. In simple terms, if producers purchase a VUA variety and then divert some of that grain at harvest for seed use and plant it the following spring, they will be charged a Variety Use Fee for the use of the variety.

Seeds Canada is actively gathering input from grower organizations through the VUA Grower Working Group, which meets regularly. Participants have heard from experts and shared their ideas on the goals and next steps the working group should take. The Working Group is made up of representatives from the seed industry and various producer organizations.