The Current Why Farmers Are Nervous About Canada’s Next Trade Move
Jul 7, 2025
Mike von Masso, a food economist at the University of Guelph, dives into the tensions of U.S.-Canada trade negotiations and their implications for agricultural trade. The discussion highlights the precarious nature of supply management, which stabilizes prices for milk, eggs, and poultry. Insightful perspectives from both Canadian and U.S. farmers reveal concerns about market access and the emotional toll of industry consolidation. The potential consequences of changing trade policies are examined, showcasing the critical balance needed to support farmers and consumers alike.
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U.S. Farmer on Canadian Supply Management
- Blake Gendabean admires Canada's supply management for supporting small dairy farms.
- However, he notes U.S. farmers face pressures to consolidate and produce at larger scales to lower costs.
Egg Farmer's Supply Management Experience
- Cammie Lockwood credits supply management for stabilizing her egg farm's income.
- She says losing it would cause price volatility and jeopardize farm planning and growth.
Supply Management Stabilizes Prices
- Supply management stabilizes prices and supply for Canadian dairy, eggs, and poultry farmers.
- While criticized for raising prices, evidence on cost impact is mixed and influenced by grocery industry differences.