The Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC) appeared September 26 before the Senate Standing Committee on Banking, Commerce and the Economy, to advocate for the quick passage of Bill C-280, the Financial Protection for Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Growers Act.

 

FVGC was joined by the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) and the Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC). 

 

If adopted, the Bill - which has been 39 years in the making - will provide long-awaited financial protection for Canadian growers, who are currently left vulnerable when buyers go bankrupt.

 

The presentation, delivered by FVGC executive director Massimo Bergamini and board member Quinton Woods, emphasized that current insolvency laws are inadequate for the fresh produce sector, where perishable products and longer payment terms create significant financial risks for growers. They cited the 2023 bankruptcy of Lakeside Produce as a stark example. This bankruptcy left many growers without payments for their produce, creating significant financial instability.

 

"Canada’s growers have waited nearly four decades for this kind of financial protection," said Massimo Bergamini. "Now is the time for action. We urge Senators to pass Bill C-280 swiftly, so the fresh fruit and vegetable sector can continue to provide food for Canadians without the looming threat of financial loss from buyer insolvencies."

 

Woods added, "This bill isn’t just about financial security—it’s about ensuring a sustainable future for Canadian growers and keeping our produce industry competitive in global markets."

 

FVGC is optimistic following the Senate Committee’s engagement at the meeting and looks forward to continued collaboration to ensure the swift passage of Bill C-280, which would protect growers, enhance food security, and promote the long-term sustainability of Canada’s fresh fruit and vegetable industry.

 

For more information on Bill C-280 visit www.protectproducesales.ca. You can read FVGC’s presentation to the BANC Standing Committee at www.fvgc.ca.

 

Source:  Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada September 26, 2024 news release