On November 19, leaders from Canada’s organic industry convened in Ottawa to advocate for greater federal investments in organic farming, emphasizing its potential for economic and environmental benefits.
Although Canada boasts a $9 billion organic market the fifth largest globally, driven by growing consumer demand it remains the only major agricultural nation without a dedicated policy for organic farming and market development.
The Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA) hosted its annual Organic Summit and Parliament Day, bringing together policymakers and industry members to discuss strategies for advancing the sector. The event featured expert speakers and discussions on affordability, market opportunities, and the resilience of organic farming systems.
Insights from organizations like NielsenIQ, Export Development Canada (EDC), and the Rodale Institute highlighted the advantages of organic farming, such as nutrient-dense produce and sustainable practices. Participants also learned from the U.S., which achieved record organic market growth of $70 billion in 2023.
An Organic Parliamentary Reception, sponsored by Senator Robert Black, saw over 100 policymakers engage with organic leaders to explore key priorities for the sector.
"This event is a vital forum for the national organic sector to unite, exchange ideas, and advocate for policies that will support our growth. It’s a critical moment to acknowledge that organics are the future of sustainable agriculture," said Carrie-Anne Palmeri, Organic Program Manager at Nature’s Path Organic Foods and President of the COTA Board.
During 20 meetings with Parliamentarians, industry leaders identified key priorities, including developing a comprehensive organic data strategy and providing production and market supports.
“Canada has no publicly available data on basic production, sales and trade. This is essential for a thriving organic sector,” said Tia Loftsgard, Executive Director of COTA. “By improving data collection, we can strengthen supply chains, support market development, safeguard organic integrity and ensure long-term success.”
Globally, successful organic policies balance production support with market development, fostering trust and growth. Transition supports for farmers, innovation, and knowledge sharing are essential for expanding Canada’s organic supply. This approach would help maintain competitiveness while delivering environmental, social, and economic benefits.