Trade missions have compelling stories to tell about Ontario winter wheat. Treena Hein The growing demand for winter wheat Quality, sustainability and market development are attracting new buyers to this Ontario crop ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER SUSTAINABILITY 10 As global markets shift, interest in Canada Eastern Soft Red Winter (CESRW) wheat is rising around the world. Ontario grain farmers grow the vast majority, about 80 per cent, of Canada's winter wheat. And they’re poised to meet the growing demand. Dana Dickerson, Grain Farmers of Ontario's Director of Market Development and Sustainability, says that the efforts to develop new various export markets is bearing fruit. Overall demand for Ontario wheat started to grow during the pandemic, when many countries diversified their wheat sourcing to ensure a steady supply. Ontario was a top choice. Dickerson says there’s been growth in exports to Mexico, Ecuador, Dominican Republic and Colombia, for milling and feed. In recent years, Spain started importing CESRW after Canada signed the CETA trade deal. Grain Farmers of Ontario carries out annual trade missions with Cereals Canada to Mexico and Central America. Inbound delegations to Ontario in 2025 included, Africa, with Nigeria being the major market there, and Ecuador. One reason exports can grow is because of investment in port and terminal infrastructure to support capacity. Grain Farmers of Ontario Market Analysis Specialist Hayley Vinkovic notes that major expansions have occurred at the Port of Windsor and grain terminals in Hamilton and Oshawa. In addition, wheat milling capacity has grown recently with the expansion of the P&H flour mill in Hamilton. But infrastructure aside, Ontario/Canadian wheat is a natural choice for any country due to its strong reputation for quality, reliability, and sustainability.
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