Massimo Bergamini, executive director of the Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC), participated in the Prime Minister's Canada-U.S. Economic Summit on February 7 in Toronto.

“Canada’s fruit and vegetable sector is deeply integrated with the U.S. market, ensuring year-round access to fresh, high-quality produce on both sides of the border,” said Bergamini. “A stable and predictable trade environment is critical to food security, economic resilience, and the viability of Canadian farms.

He joined more than 150 Canadian leaders in trade, business, and public policy along with the Prime Minister and several members of his cabinet to discuss strengthening economic ties between Canada and the United States while addressing key trade and competitiveness issues.

Bergamini highlighted the potential risks posed by proposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian agricultural exports, noting that such measures could disrupt supply chains, increase costs, and threaten food affordability. In 2023, Canada exported $40 billion worth of food and agricultural products to the U.S., with fruit and vegetable growers accounting for $4.4 billion of that total. The greenhouse vegetable sector, which exports approximately 75% of its production to the U.S., would be particularly vulnerable to trade disruptions.

“Our growers need better tools to withstand these risks, including enhanced business risk management programs that reflect the realities of perishable crop production,” Bergamini emphasized. “Current support mechanisms, such as AgriStability and AgriInsurance, do not adequately cover revenue losses or account for the rapid response needed when markets shift overnight. Without stronger safeguards, the entire food system—farmers, retailers, and Canadian consumers—will face increased uncertainty and higher costs.”

Bergamini also underscored the need for market diversification, stating that reliance on the U.S. leaves Canadian growers vulnerable to policy shifts. “Expanding access to international markets takes time and significant investment, but we need a coordinated effort to develop new trade relationships. The current system for securing international market access is slow and cumbersome, often limiting diversification opportunities for our growers. Strengthening our ability to compete in global markets will help protect Canada’s food security by ensuring stable production and supply.”

The Canada-U.S. Economic Summit provided a valuable platform for leaders from across Canada to collaborate on solutions to evolving trade challenges. FVGC remains committed to working alongside the Government of Canada to develop policies that ensure trade stability, enhance the competitiveness of Canadian fresh produce in North America, and safeguard food security for all Canadians.

Source:  Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada February 7, 2025 news release