Manitoba Agriculture Critic Jeff Bereza says canola farmers are facing one of the most uncertain seasons in decades. He points to the crop’s importance, noting that its very name traces back to Canada.
“One of the reasons is this is one of the only crops or the only crop that actually had its origin here in Manitoba. And just to give everybody an idea, just the name canola basically comes from Canada can and the oil Ola,” notes Bereza.
He adds that the sector is reeling from Chinese tariffs that amount to almost 76 per cent, describing the blow as a $2.4-billion loss to Manitoba’s economy. More than 35,000 jobs in the province depend on canola.
Ripple effects on farmers
Harvest season adds pressure as producers consider how to cover costs for seed and fertilizer. Typically, they sell some canola in the fall to prepare for the next crop. Bereza says that becomes impossible without stable markets.
“How is a farmer able to pay for that canola seed for next year if there's no market?” he says. “How is a farmer, if he can't sell his canola, able to put his fertilizer into the ground?”
He continues that Premier Wab Kinew has stressed collaboration with Ottawa, but Manitoba farmers cannot afford to wait. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has already met federal ministers, supported crushing facility upgrades, and is preparing for a trade mission to China.
Searching for markets
Bereza says Manitoba could be working just as aggressively to find buyers in places like Belgium, France, and Bangladesh.
He also raises concern about upheaval in the provincial Agriculture Department, with the long-time deputy minister gone and other senior positions vacant. Bereza argues that leadership gaps come at the worst possible time for producers.
Broader impact
Drought in parts of Manitoba adds to the strain, and with soybeans and pork also hit by tariffs, losses could exceed $1.2 billion. Bereza warns the impact goes beyond agriculture.
“When we look at it, ignoring one of the strongest industries, which is agriculture, also puts pressure on healthcare, and the public safety. They're spending so much money and some of that money comes back in taxes, back to the government for these programs,” adds Bereza.
He continues that a $1 drop in canola prices can erase $60,000 in income for a 1,500-acre farmer in a single day. The government’s wait-and-see approach, he says, is not an option.
Call for leadership
Bereza says producers need answers now.
“They can't wait. They need some answers, and they deserve answers,” he says.
He concludes that Manitoba has the ability to show the same forward thinking as neighbouring provinces, put politics aside, and support canola growers before more damage is done.
Why canola matters to Manitoba
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Origins: Developed in Manitoba, the name “canola” comes from Canada (can) and oil (ola).
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Economic impact: Contributes about $2.4 billion annually to Manitoba’s economy.
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Jobs: Supports more than 35,000 jobs in the province.
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Global markets: China and the U.S. are the two largest buyers. New markets in Europe and Asia are being explored.
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Farm finances: A $1 drop in canola prices can cost a 1,500-acre farmer $60,000 in a single day.
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Education & research: Manitoba remains central to canola breeding, production, and innovation.
What can be done
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Trade missions: Manitoba leadership joining international trips to secure new buyers, similar to Saskatchewan’s recent moves.
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New markets: Explore opportunities in Europe and Asia, such as Belgium, France, and Bangladesh, as alternatives to China.
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Department stability: Restore strong leadership in Manitoba’s Agriculture Department after key deputy minister departures.
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Infrastructure support: Investments in crushing facilities and road upgrades to strengthen the value chain.
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Proactive policy: A “Made-in-Manitoba” approach instead of waiting on federal action.
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Immediate relief: Concrete provincial measures to help farmers cover seed and fertilizer costs this fall.