On December 9 the Government of Canada introduced a new bill that will stimulate investment and innovation in Canada's agricultural and horticultural sectors and give Canadian farmers, breeders and growers more tools to compete and thrive in world markets and at home.
The Agricultural Growth Act will increase farmers and growers’ access to new crop varieties, enhance trade opportunities and the safety of agricultural products, reduce red tape and contribute to Canada's overall economic growth. Canadian Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz said: "Our government is committed to supporting Canada's farmers and our world-class agriculture industry so they can remain competitive in world markets. Armed with the latest science, tools and practices, our agriculture sector will continue to be an important driver of Canada's economy."
Among the key changes being proposed in this bill are amendments to the Plant Breeders' Rights Act (PBR Act) to align with the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV Convention 1991) which would update Canada's legislation from the now outdated framework of the UPOV Convention 1978.
To read the rest of the story, please go to: International Association of Horticultural Producers