The ag industry is facing uncertainty in international markets
The executive director of Grain Growers of Canada’s (GGC) newest member organization shed some light on its decision to join the national group.
“GGC’s producer focused voice aligns with SaskBarley’s strategic priorities to advance interests for Saskatchewan barley producers at national level,” Jill McDonald told Farms.com in an email. “This new membership comes at a time where the agriculture industry is facing increased uncertainty in international markets and a strong producer voice at the national level is critical to the future success of the industry.”
China is Canada’s top destination for barley, importing more than 90 per cent of Canadian barley.
The U.S. imports about 98 per cent of its barley from Canada, totaling more than $155 million in 2023.
SaskBarley became the 14th member of GGC on Jan. 8.
Saskatchewan barley farmers may have the opportunity to vote on issues related to the GGC during the Saskatchewan Crops Forum.
The event on Jan. 14 and 15 includes the AGM for SaskBarley (2pm on Jan. 14), SaskOilseeds (11am on Jan. 15) and Sask Pulse (3:15pm on Jan. 15).
The event is sold out but voting producers may walk up to attend the AGMs in person, regardless of if they’re registered to attend the Crops Forum.
Barley is an important crop for Canada.
Canada is the world’s fifth largest producer of barley and the third largest exporter of malt barley.
Canada exports about 36 per cent of its annual barley production.
Canada is home to more than 25,000 barley farms, the 2021 Census of Agriculture says. In total, those farms cover more than 8.3 million acres.
Saskatchewan is Canada’s second-largest barley producer. Only Alberta farmers produce more.
In 2023, for example, Saskatchewan barley farmers produced 3.2 million tonnes of the crop. Alberta farmers produced 4.7 million tonnes.
In 2022, barley generated $14.4 billion in revenue, $6.1 billion in wages and supported more than 100,000 full time jobs.
Canadian barley received support from the federal government in June 2024.
Minister MacAulay announced an investment of $9.6 million over five years for the new Canadian National Barley Cluster.
This initiative will focus on improving feed barley, barley genetics, agronomy, and disease resistance.