FOR THE FUTURE OF FARMING AND SUGAR BEETS
Domestic Sugar Policy
Sugar beets were once grown all across Canada. But now, they're only found in two small locations. Why? The answer lies in the lack of one simple piece of paper: a Domestic Sugar Policy (DSP).
A domestic sugar policy regulates the amount of sugar that is imported into a country and focuses on increasing domestic sugar production. But Canada doesn't have one. In fact, Canada is the only G7 nation without one!
Unlike most countries, Canada allows duty-free imports of raw cane sugar, while refined sugar imports face tariffs. As a result, 1.4 million tonnes of cane sugar—mainly from South America—are imported into Canada, hurting local farmers and impacting Canadian consumers. This foreign dependence has limited domestic growth and hurts our local farmers.
The DSP's Goals
The goal of the DSP is to double Canadian sugar beet production from 8% of the national consumption to 16%. This projection would also increase the GDP by approximately $248.2 million and provide nearly 2600 job opportunities in Alberta alone.
Currently, sugar beet farmers are allocated an amount of sugar beets that they can produce each year and no new quota is being issued. Implementing the DSP would increase the amount of sugar beets that Canadian farming families can produce and create new opportunities.
The DSP and Sustainability
The DSP also supports increased agricultural sustainability. Canadian sugar beets are significantly more sustainable than their cane sugar counterparts. Being FSA Silver level certified, Canadian sugar beets are verified as being a sustainable product. The production of sugar beets generally use less land and water than cane sugar, and are more efficient, containing more sucrose per kg than most cane sugars. By growing and refining our sugar in-country, Canada can contribute to a greener future by reducing the need for international transport.
Why a DSP?
Providing access to a fully Canadian, ethically sourced, and sustainable product. Less imports. More local.
FOOD SECURITY
International cane farmers currently hold 90% of the Canadian sugar market. Let's even it out for our local growers.
IMPROVED COMPETITIVENESS
Creating jobs in rural areas and supporting the development of small communities.
ECONOMIC & RURAL DEVELOPMENT
Relieving economic pressure from oil and gas to agriculture, all while providing opportunities for the crop to expand nationally.
ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION
Canadian sugar beets have been verified as sustainably grown and produced. It's time to see our groceries filled with a product that provides economic, social, and environmental benefits.
REDUCTION IN CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS
Sugar beets are a high-value crop. By increasing the number of acres grown in Canada, we will see an increase in GDP contribution from our agriculture industries.
INCREASED GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT
"To have the Government of Canada implement a domestic sugar policy that will prioritize the production of beet sugar."
Alberta Sugar Beet Industry Impacts
With a domestic sugar policy, these numbers could increase by 100%
8% Canadian Market Share
28,000 Acres Grown
125,000 Tonnes of Sugar
2,150 Jobs
$50 Million in Labour Income
$248 Million in Economic Contribution
