Federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Agriculture concluded their annual conference today in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Their shared commitment to building a competitive, innovative and resilient agriculture and agri-food sector was reaffirmed, while also recognizing the importance of taking a collaborative approach in supporting all producers and processors from coast-to-coast-to-coast.
As the five-year Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) comes to an end in 2028, Ministers issued the Halifax Statement, which outlines the shared vision, principles, and key priorities that will guide the development of the Next Policy Framework (2028 to 2033). The Halifax Statement recognizes the importance of FPT governments working together to support economic growth and competitiveness while maintaining the various business models that help create a vital agriculture and agri-food sector. It also supports market diversification, increased trade, greater sector resilience, and advances science, research, and innovation. The approval of the Halifax Statement will be followed by the negotiations over the coming year as FPT governments work towards a renewed policy framework. The Framework aims to provide the flexibility to respond to provincial and territorial priorities and evolving needs, while supporting long-term success.
Ministers reviewed progress to strengthen Business Risk Management (BRM) programs under the Sustainable CAP. They reaffirmed that programs must be flexible, responsive and reflect evolving producer needs amid increasing economic and production risks, while remaining accessible to producers. Ministers agreed in principle to take the necessary steps to bring forward AgriStability changes related to non-arm's-length labour and contract work, considering impacts on small farms. The objective is to reach a decision for the 2027 program year, subject to the necessary approvals within provinces' and territories' respective jurisdictions. Ministers also agreed to return with their respective positions on a potential increase to the AgriStability payment cap for the next framework. Looking ahead to the Next Policy Framework (NPF), Ministers underscored the need to engage industry to improve BRM programs, ensuring they are timely, equitable and efficient in managing risks beyond producers' control. They also directed officials to prioritize longer-term work on potential changes to BRM programs for Ministerial consideration.
Ministers emphasized the importance of maintaining, diversifying, and expanding market access. They discussed the value of relationships with key international partners and the benefits and challenges of Canada's existing trade agreements. In light of ongoing global trade uncertainty, tariffs, and supply chain disruptions, Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the agriculture and agri-food sector remains competitive and resilient. Ministers also discussed work underway to carry out the First Ministers' commitment to reduce internal trade barriers in food and agriculture, encouraging FPT collaboration with industry to maintain food safety and reduce irritants, while protecting export market access.
Nova Scotia led a panel discussion that focused on mixed farming that highlighted the strength and adaptability of operations, including planning of complementary products, on-farm innovation and the role of direct marketing, including farmers' markets. Ministers also participated in an agri-food panel discussion with stakeholders about priorities shaping the agri-food sector. Ministers heard a range of challenges and opportunities related to unlocking competitiveness, investment and innovation in this advanced manufacturing sector. Panelists stressed the importance of reducing red tape and working together to position Canada globally as being one of the most advanced agri-food industries, and to thrive in a changing world. Ministers welcomed Ted McKinney, CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), who shared his perspective on agriculture's role in the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and underscored the deep integration between the Canadian and U.S. agriculture sectors.
Ministers discussed labour needs of the agriculture and agri-food sector and Employment and Social Development Canada provided an update on their Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program. Ministers discussed the role of temporary foreign workers in response to persistent labour shortages when domestic workers are not available, as they help ensure the continuity of operations across many businesses. Ministers recognized the importance of preserving the core strengths of the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program stream under the TFW Program. Ministers highlighted the need for a smooth transition for employers and workers as federal reforms are advanced. Ministers also highlighted the importance of these programs in supporting the unique needs of the agriculture and the agri-food sector.
In addition, Ministers reviewed progress on regulatory and program updates to strengthen Canada's food system. Throughout the conference, Ministers emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to strengthen and support the sector's competitiveness and access to innovation in crop protection. This includes implementing the FPT Action Plan developed by the FPT Working Group on Pesticide Management. Ministers also discussed the progress made by the Ministers' committee on pesticides, led by Ontario and Saskatchewan, who met this spring to discuss the importance of federal amendments to the Pest Control Products Act, alongside the FPT Action Plan. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) also highlighted accelerating product reviews by leveraging approvals from trusted regulatory partners, helping farmers access the tools they need to grow Canada's food.
Ministers recognized progress made in implementing the Office of the Grocery Code of Conduct. Ministers welcomed the collaborative efforts that supported its creation and are expecting a report from the Office regarding the review of the Code and Dispute Resolution Management Process at the end of its first year of implementation in January 2027.
The next Annual Conference of FPT Ministers of Agriculture will be held in Calgary, Alberta, in September 2027.
