Fertilizer Canada Calling for the Federal Government to Take Immediate Action to End Work Stoppage at West Coast Ports

Jul 11, 2023

OTTAWA, ON, - Fertilizer Canada is calling on the federal government to take immediate action to end the work stoppage at the West Coast ports. Canada exports 95 per cent of the potash we produce to global markets with the majority flowing through the Port of Vancouver. Potash is a vital crop input that helps farmers increase their yields, and interruptions to overseas shipments can have damaging impacts on global food security.

The government must take immediate action to end the work stoppage using all means available, including recalling Parliament and enacting back-to-work legislation. Swift action is needed as the impacts of delays are felt even after a resolution is reached as services need time to ramp back up. Government intervention is needed to protect Canada's reputation as a reliable trading partner.

"Potash is essential to global food security, and we are concerned the strike will jeopardize the delivery of our product to farmers around the world who need it to grow hearty, nutritious crops," says Karen Proud, President and CEO Fertilizer Canada. "The fertilizer industry depends on reliable supply chains to get our products to farmers. This strike is one of many disruptions we have seen and underscores the importance of strengthening Canada's supply chains."

Geopolitical events, like the war in Ukraine, have put pressure on global potash supply, and dependable supply chains are essential to Canada's reputation as a reliable and stable trading partner. Canada services markets in Asia and South America who are relying on potash shipments for their growing season.

Potash is second only to gold in export value, contributing about $5.52 billion to GDP annually. Over 75 countries rely on Canadian fertilizer. Canada is the world's largest producer and exporter of potash fertilizer in the world followed by Russia and Belarus.

Over 7,000 B.C. port workers with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) began striking on Saturday impacting exports and imports out of the West Coast ports.

Source : Newswire.ca

Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Last month in Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the seed industry at Seeds Canada’s annual conference. Among them was Sarah Foster, president of 2020 Seed Labs and the new vice-president of Seeds Canada.

Foster, who has been on the board of Seeds Canada for over a year, has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with the formation of the organization. Seeds Canada was established just over three years ago through the merger of multiple seed industry groups, including the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC). Since then, the organization has been working to define its priorities and solidify its role in the industry.

“The challenge has been allowing the dust to settle after the merger,” Foster explained. “We’ve been focused on identifying what our priorities should be and ensuring that our members, especially the seed analysts, are getting what they need to continue their professional work.”

One of the recent highlights was a pre-conference event where the three major seed labs in Alberta — 20/20 Seed Labs, SGS Canada and Seed Check — opened their doors to members. The event saw a record number of seed analysts and business professionals in attendance. Foster emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “It’s crucial for people to see what goes on behind the scenes. We’re an open book now, and that openness helps build trust and understanding within the industry.”

The event also featured an environmental scan and a series of discussions that fostered strong communication among attendees. According to Foster, the dialogue was both encouraging and inspiring.

“A lot of people were really inspired by the fact that Seeds Canada is moving ahead with its agenda. The seed analysts, who have always worked diligently in the background, are now being recognized more prominently,” she said.

Before the merger, seed analysts were represented by CSAAC. Now, as part of Seeds Canada, they are finding their place within the larger organization. Foster believes that the integration has been successful, noting, “I think we’re thriving. You only need to look south of the border, where similar consolidations are happening.”

As Seeds Canada continues to evolve, Foster remains optimistic about the future. “I want to be totally transparent with anyone who is a seed analyst — I’ve got your back. We’re moving in a positive direction, and we’ll do everything we can to meet the needs of our members,” she said.

Fertilizer Canada Calling for the Federal Government to Take Immediate Action to End Work Stoppage at West Coast Ports

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Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

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