The federal government is signalling it may loosen regulations in the agriculture sector as a way to help the sector during the trade war with President Donald Trump.
On March 18, Agriculture Minister Kody Blois announced plans that could cut red tape for farmers and agri-food processors, including faster approval for alternative sources of animal feed.
“We will continue to use all available measures to reduce red tape, streamline our processes, and modernize our regulations,” said Blois.
“This measure will alleviate the burden of tariffs on animal feed producers by increasing the number of approved feed ingredients from within Canada or from other countries.”
Industry groups, such as the Animal Nutrition Association of Canada (ANAC), have been calling for deregulation for years.
ANAC points out that federal policies focus too much on regulatory “sticks,” preventing innovations available elsewhere.
Last year, ANAC’s executive director Melissa Dumont said that feed formulators in the United States and Europe can access additives not yet approved in Canada.
Industry frustration extends beyond animal feed.
Many producers say the federal carbon tax, complex rules for hiring temporary foreign workers, and proposed changes at the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) threaten Canada’s global competitiveness.
They also point to the cost of removing specified risk materials (SRM) in beef production, which adds millions of dollars in annual expenses.
A January letter from CropLife Canada to the deputy health minister described how regulatory overhauls could hamper innovation.
“The PMRA’s current direction threatens to cripple the regulatory system and drive innovation out of Canada, without any benefits for health and environmental protection,” said the letter.
Blois announcement includes examining the idea of raising the maximum slaughter age for feeder calves from 36 to 40 weeks.
His department will also look at eliminating unnecessary labelling requirements for fresh fruits and vegetables, while pursuing the harmonization of Canada’s BSE-enhanced feed ban regulations with those of the United States.
If the federal government does follow through on the changes, the feed sector could gain a vital edge in a competitive international market.