Charting the path forward
FROM THE CEO'S DESK
GRAIN FARMERS OF ONTARIO LAST UPDATED ITS STRATEGIC PLAN IN 2020. As I reflect on the past four years, it has been a period of tremendous change and upheaval but also a time of growth for the industry, with a number of tallies in the ‘wins’ column for Ontario’s grain farmers.
The 2020 strategic plan was launched as the Covid-19 pandemic had a firm hold around the world, upending supply chains. The Russian invasion of Ukraine, fertilizer shortages, rail and shipping strikes, and unprecedented weather and climate-related disasters are among the global challenges that have impacted Canadian farmers, the agricultural markets, and the demand for Ontario barley, corn, soybeans, oats, and wheat.
These challenges have all been met head-on by Grain Farmers of Ontario, with a dedicated team of directors and staff working tirelessly to address and mitigate the impact of events and circumstances beyond farmers’ control. Despite these challenges, the industry continues to grow: a 2023 report by MNP reports that Ontario’s grain industry represents $27 billion in economic output – a 60 per cent increase since 2010. That’s impressive!
Over the past few months, the Grain Farmers of Ontario Board of Directors has been evaluating our progress and has taken what we’ve collectively learned over the past four years to complete a new strategic plan. This plan will be shared with delegates and farmer-members in the coming months at the upcoming January meetings. Be sure to plan to attend; the schedule is found on page 19.
One of the big success stories of the past few years has been the continued advancement of trade relationships with global partners.
Ontario’s grain and oilseeds are considered to be high-quality, safe, nutritious, and sustainably grown and continue to be in high demand globally. This was evident on a recent trade mission to the U.K. and Europe, where we met with industry leaders and government officials to learn more about how we can continue working together. While there are some challenges to overcome, like the impact of regulations including the EU Deforestation Regulations, for example, the implementation of which has been deferred to 2025 – our trade relationships remain strong, and the demand for Ontario grains and oilseeds continues to grow.
While we work to maintain good relationships with trading partners, the domestic and international political environment continues to be a bit of a wild card. I am writing this just days after the November 5 U.S. election; the impact of a Trump presidency on the agriculture industry is yet to be seen. In Europe, a new EU government has recently formed, and there continues to be global unrest in many countries around the world, including Ukraine. Here at home, the federal election is scheduled for October 2025, with a provincial election to follow in 2026; however, we are preparing for a possible early election call in both cases. While I don’t have a crystal ball to predict the outcome of any of these issues, Grain Farmers of Ontario is working on your behalf to ensure the best outcome for whatever may come our way in 2025 and into the future.
This edition of Ontario Grain Farmer marks the end of 2024; as we head into the holiday season and the new year, I want to wish you and your family health, happiness, and good fortune. •
