The Canadian grain export market continues to see growth and demand for services beyond the capacity of the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC). This increased demand has resulted in the CGC being unable to act as an effective and efficient service provider. Fees charged for the CGC’s services have resulted in a growing surplus that farmers have demanded be returned through a reduction in fees. Further, an inability to provide the sufficient services demanded by exporters has resulted in the duplication of outward inspection private industry.

Alberta Wheat and Barley Commissions, in support of our farmer members, believe it is time for the CGC to withdraw from the provision of outward inspection services and to refocus efforts on improving transparency on the grading, pricing, sales, testing, quality and safety of Canada’s grains.

Alberta wheat and barley farmers want to see the CGC modernize its operational focus on ensuring an efficient and transparent domestic grain market for middle-class farmers. This will involve a focused attention on the research and monitoring required to ensure export markets can trust that Canadian grains are safe, provide payment protection to mitigate risk and ensure standards in grain sales are transparent to farmers.

Canada Grain Act Submission - April 28, 2021

On April 28, 2021, the Alberta Wheat and Barley Commissions submitted their formal Canada Grain Act review submission document. See the April 28 press release here. Highlights of the submission include calling for an end to mandatory outward weighing and inspection services by the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) which impose additional costs on farmers, plus the expansion of the CGC’s role in supporting farmers’ rights to dispute grading results. 

To review the summary of the commissions’ key recommendations, click HERE. To review the full submission report, click HERE.