(May 20, 2025, Ottawa, ON) Seeds Canada extends its congratulations to the newly elected Liberal government, under Prime Minister Mark Carney, and to the newly appointed cabinet, including the Minister of Agriculture, Heath MacDonald. Seeds Canada looks forward to working collaboratively to advance the interests of Canadian agriculture and innovation by building a policy environment that enhances the seed sector’s competitiveness globally, prioritizes plant breeding innovation, and supports our farmers.
Regrettably, there has been a prolonged period where multiple governments have not actively supported agricultural innovation in Canada. Due to outdated regulations and policies, an environment has emerged that discourages investment in new technology. This situation is making Canada less competitive. If we do not take action, our capacity to innovate, attract investment, and help Canada become a leading global agricultural powerhouse will continue to decline.
“With a supportive government, the Canadian seed industry has an opportunity to thrive under regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation enabling competition and consumer choice,” says Brent Collins, President of Seeds Canada. “The success of our industry, and most importantly the farmers we serve, hinges on our ability to innovate, making it essential for us to continually push the boundaries of what is possible.”
We invite Prime Minister Carney and cabinet to work with Seeds Canada to:
· Create a positive environment for investment in plant breeding and variety development.
· Focus regulations and government resources on health, safety and market access, eliminating unnecessary regulations.
· Ensure all regulated and impacted parties have a voice in seed related regulations, as well as a vehicle for continuous improvement of regulations.
Media Inquiries:
Selah Katona, Director of Communications
Seeds Canada is the voice of the seed sector in Canada, with members including analysts, breeders, distributors, processors, seed growers and other contributors to the industry, located from coast to coast. Seed is the vital first link in the agriculture value chain, contributing over $6 billion to the economy, employing more than 63,000 Canadians, and exporting more than $700 million annually.