March 31, 2025
Dear Members and Stakeholders,
CSGA is happy to share an important Seed Regulatory Modernization (SRM) update. The Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA) and Seeds Canada have agreed on a joint statement to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) on the establishment of a Seed Sector Advisory Committee. This recommendation, approved in principle by the Boards of Directors of both organizations, is designed to improve communication and collaboration between the seed sector, the broader value chain, and government.
VIEW THE JOINT STATEMENT HERE
Why an Advisory Committee?
CSGA and Seeds Canada recognize that an advisory body would foster meaningful collaboration and strengthen engagement on seed policy, standards, service delivery, and regulations. The proposed Advisory Committee would serve as a structured forum for consultation, discussion, and information exchange on policy, standards, emerging issues, and regulatory change.
What Would the Advisory Committee Do?
While the Advisory Committee would have no governing power, standards-setting authority, or fiduciary responsibility, it would act as a critical liaison between government and the seed sector to support a modern, efficient, and effective regulatory framework. Providing a dedicated venue for engagement would help ensure that policy and regulatory matters are addressed through a timely, balanced, and inclusive approach.
How This Fits with the CFIA’s SRM Initiative
As CFIA advances its Seed Regulatory Modernization (SRM) policy consultation this spring, we believe this joint statement is both timely and aligned with SRM’s objectives of modernization, efficiency, and industry collaboration. This Advisory Committee would provide a structured mechanism for engagement and support continuous improvement in Canada’s seed regulatory framework.
What’s Next?
We have sent the joint statement to the CFIA, encouraging serious consideration of this proposal and inviting further discussions. CSGA is committed to keeping our members informed of developments as this initiative progresses and the SRM consultation unfolds.
For more information on the CFIA’s Seed Regulatory Modernization initiative and to learn more about CSGA’s SRM policy positions, please visit our website. As always, we welcome your questions and feedback.
