Agricultural Trade Dynamics and Canadian Exports

This report discusses the current state of Canadian agriculture and agri-food exports, emphasizing the country's reliance on the U.S. market. It outlines how U.S. trade tensions have highlighted the significance of Canadian food trade, with over 60% of exports directed to the U.S. The report details the growth of Canadian agri-food exports, which have quadrupled since 2000, and the challenges posed by increasing global competition, particularly from countries like Brazil and Australia. It notes that Canada has slipped from 5th to 7th place in global agriculture rankings and could fall further without strategic interventions. The report presents a model suggesting that Canada could increase its global market share by 30% by 2035 through targeted investments and enhanced trade relationships. It stresses the importance of innovation and export-oriented infrastructure to regain competitiveness in the global market. The document concludes with recommendations for diversifying export destinations and leveraging existing trade agreements to bolster Canada’s position in the global agri-food sector.