ONTARIO, CANADA - We recently learned that an impactful bill has been passed in Canada. The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA), the Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada (FVGC), and the Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) applauded the passage of Bill C-280, the Financial Protection for Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Farmers Act, with the support of all political parties at third reading in the House of Commons.
“After a long road to get here, the passage of Bill C-280 in the House of Commons with all-party support is a critical milestone in ensuring the stability and financial security of the fruit and vegetable sector,” said CPMA President Ron Lemaire. “We are grateful to all Members of Parliament for their support of the Bill, and greatly appreciative of the efforts of MP Davidson in moving this legislation forward.”
Bill C-280, sponsored by Member of Parliament (MP) Scot Davidson, aims to establish a deemed trust—a vital financial protection mechanism for fresh produce sellers in Canada. According to a press release, this mechanism will help secure payment in the event of buyer bankruptcy, providing stability and support to the industry while safeguarding Canadian food security.
Bill C-280 will now be referred to the Canadian Senate for debate and votes. The CPMA, FVGC, and DRC call on all Senators to recognize the positive impact the bill can have on the fruit and vegetable sector and to prioritize the passage of this important legislation.
“Particularly now, when Canadians are increasingly concerned about the cost of food, it is so important for the government to take action to strengthen food security in Canada,” said FVGC President Jan VanderHout. “The positive impact of Bill C-280 on the fresh produce industry cannot be overstated. The establishment of a deemed trust for all fresh produce sellers will help to ensure that they can continue to support local economies across the country and to provide Canadians with our safe, nutritious fruit and vegetable products.”
For more information and comments, check out the press release here.
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Canadian Produce Marketing Association Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation
