APAS summit to focus on next farm policy framework
An upcoming summit in Saskatoon will bring together producers, industry leaders and government officials to help shape the next Canadian agricultural policy framework.
The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan, along with several provincial farm organizations, will host the Next Policy Framework Summit on March 25 at the Saskatoon Inn and Conference Centre.
The event is intended to begin discussions around the 2028 Canadian Agricultural Policy Framework as the current Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership moves toward its conclusion.
APAS president Bill Prybylski said Saskatchewan has an opportunity to take a leadership role in shaping future agricultural policy at a time of both opportunity and uncertainty.
“It’s time for agriculture to lead, not follow,” Prybylski said in a release. “By focusing on our sector’s achievements and resilience, we’re not just safeguarding our food security, we are setting global standards of excellence.”
He said future policy must keep financially viable producers at its centre while also recognizing environmental progress and technological change.
According to APAS, the summit will focus on growth, productivity, profitability and strengthening agronomic assets, with an emphasis on innovation, adaptation and leadership.
The agenda includes a presentation by University of Saskatchewan agricultural economist Dr. Richard Gray on rebalancing priorities in the 2028 framework.
Other sessions will examine transportation and supply chain efficiency, soil health and agricultural water management.
Federal and provincial officials are also expected to provide updates on the national and provincial policy development process. Scheduled speakers include Lawrence Hanson, deputy minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and Amy Standish, assistant deputy minister with Saskatchewan Agriculture.
Additional discussions will cover business risk management, innovation and trade, emerging agricultural technologies, and producer perspectives from the grain, livestock and mixed farming sectors.