By Alice McFarlane

Provincial action needed after federal tariff relief measures

Mar 25, 2025 | 10:33 AM

The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) is urging the Saskatchewan Government for prompt action and financial aid following the federal government’s increase in AgriStability support.

This comes in response to China’s tariffs on canola oil, canola meal, and peas, which threaten Saskatchewan farmers’ cash flow.

APAS urged the Moe Government to engage with the federal government to formally agree to implement the enhanced AgriStability measures, including the increased compensation rate, higher payment cap, and options for interim and targeted advance payments.

APAS President Bill Prybylski acknowledged the federal support and emphasizes that the proposed enhancements to AgriStability are positive steps.

“But their impact for Saskatchewan producers depends entirely on the Government of Saskatchewan agreeing to and implementing these changes,” Prybylski said.

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APAS also expressed significant concerns regarding the immediate financial challenges facing farmers. Prybylski said while AgriStability offers whole farm protection, payments are often received long after significant financial losses have occurred.

“Saskatchewan farmers will potentially have to borrow a lot of money in the interim to manage critical cash flow due to these market disruptions,” he said.

APAS has had discussions with the new Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Kody Blois on the cash advance program.

APAS would like to see an immediate increase in the interest free portion of the Advance Payments Program (APP) to $350,000 as a rapid response measure to provide producers with access to upfront capital.

There are also calls to see if AgriInvest can be used to allow farmers access to capital. Prybylski said these immediate actions are essential to help bridge the gap while longer term support measures are being finalized and implemented.

APAS noted the discrepancy in the government’s quick response to the fertilizer tariffs. Then, the APP interest-free limit increased, and substantial funds went to support Eastern Canadian farmers’ fertilizer management. The current measures are contingent on provincial consent, which could slow down relief efforts.

Despite these pressing concerns, Prybylski applauded Blois’ response.

“We recognize that the minister’s action-oriented efforts over his first week are very positive and represent more progress than has been seen in recent years,” he said.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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