**Calgary**: The Western Canadian Pork Industry Forum convened on November 20, 2023, bringing together over 30 sector participants to discuss systemic challenges, strategic growth opportunities, and the importance of collaboration within the Canadian pork industry amid evolving market dynamics and recent disruptions in supply chains.
On November 20, 2023, the inaugural Western Canadian Pork Industry Forum convened in Calgary, organised by Alberta Pork. The event drew over 30 participants from various sectors of the pork value chain, including hog production, processing, transportation, veterinary medicine, and government agencies. The forum aimed to discuss the systemic challenges facing the Canadian pork industry while exploring strategic opportunities for growth and improvement.
The past five years have highlighted vulnerabilities in global supply chains, and the Canadian pork sector is no exception. The forum facilitated collaborative dialogue among stakeholders focused on relationships, enhancing the movement of pigs and pork to market, and ensuring equitable benefits for all involved. Experts in the field guided the discussions, contributing insights to foster effective conversation.
By the close of the forum, four key priorities were identified to steer future industry advocacy and government efforts: risk management and investment, domestic pork demand, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and trade. Participants recognised that continued efforts towards achieving mutual understanding among stakeholders are essential to optimise the outcomes of these key areas.
One issue discussed was the need for improved competitiveness and investment in the Canadian pork industry as a way to manage risks. As outlined during the sessions, a solid financial footing supported by strategic investment would contribute to the industry’s ability to withstand external shocks. The need for more robust risk management tools that address the unique conditions of hog production was highlighted, particularly in light of instances such as disease outbreaks and adverse weather conditions. Currently, existing risk management programs have been inadequate for many producers, with tools like AgriStability proving less effective under specific agricultural conditions.
Additionally, investment in modern infrastructure and innovative farming technologies was deemed vital for improving operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Industry representatives pointed out the high costs associated with upgrading facilities, especially given the impending ban on gestation crates effective in 2029, which necessitates significant changes to existing systems.
Another focal point of the forum was the necessity to stimulate domestic demand for Canadian pork. Historically, the industry transitioned towards international markets—a shift more pronounced since the 1970s—leaving the domestic market somewhat underserved. Recent trends, including rising competition from imported pork, particularly from the United States, prompted stakeholders to reconsider the importance of strengthening local demand.
The potential impact of animal disease outbreaks, such as African Swine Fever or Foot-and-Mouth Disease, was also a significant concern raised at the forum. Should trade cease due to a federally reportable disease, the Canadian pork supply chain could face severe bottlenecks. Stakeholders expressed the need for a renewed domestic interest in pork consumption to mitigate these challenges.
Collaboration was underscored as a crucial element in driving collective impact within the Canadian pork industry. The recently implemented Canadian Pork Excellence (CPE) programme has unified commercial hog production under a consistent standard, representing 99% of pork processed in Canada. This alignment is believed to enhance cooperation and further build resilience in the industry.
Political dynamics were discussed as another ongoing challenge. Changes in political regimes in both Canada and the United States raise considerations regarding trade relationships. The forum participants acknowledged that non-supply-managed commodities, including pork, face risks from political decisions beyond their control, including potential tariffs and labelling schemes. Partnering with policymakers was deemed essential to secure existing markets and nurture new ones.
Looking ahead, the forum signalled a proactive approach towards trade diversification, especially targeting emerging markets in Latin America and Africa, which have seen growing populations and increased demand for high-quality protein. The complexity of international relations necessitates a unified effort across the pork value chain to navigate shifting expectations from foreign buyers.
The Canadian pork industry, through the Western Canadian Pork Industry Forum, aims to create a sustainable and competitive future by aligning priorities, encouraging government support, and fostering industry innovation to benefit producers and consumers alike. The insights garnered at this forum will serve as a foundation for ongoing dialogue and collective action within the sector.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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