SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA — Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) has begun its consultation phase of the Canada Grain Act review.

The consultation will allow the federal government to hear the perspectives of the grain sector on how to reform the act. The consultation portion of the Canada Grain Act review will be held online until April 30.

“Our government is inviting Canadian producers, grain handlers, processors, and exporters to share their views on possible changes to the Canada Grain Act,” said Marie-Claude Bibeau, minister of AAFC. “Together, we will help shape an innovative and modern regulatory system that safeguards grain farmers, grows Canada’s reputation for grain quality and helps our grain industry compete with the world.”

The government is seeking feedback from grain industry stakeholders on ways to potentially update the legislation.

“The marketplace for grain has greatly evolved over the past half century, and now is the time for the Canada Grain Act to reflect that evolution,” said Jim Carr, special representative for the Prairies. “I encourage all those with a stake in Canada’s grain industry to make their voices heard as part of this consultation.”

According to AAFC, Canadian grain exports from Canadian Grain Commission-licensed grain elevators totaled 44.3 million tonnes in the 2019-20 crop year, which compared with 30.8 million tonnes in the 2009-10 crop year.

The Canada Grain Act is the legislative and regulatory framework for grain quality assurance in Canada. The act sets out the objectives and functions of the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC), which is responsible for regulating grain quality and handling in Canada.

“The Canadian Grain Commission supports the review of the Canada Grain Act, and we look forward to working with AAFC and stakeholders to continue improving Canada’s grain quality assurance system and protections for producers,” said Doug Chorney, chief commissioner of the CGC.