Top Five Priorities

Over the past few months, Alberta Pork has written to 34 Alberta Members of Parliament and 91 Members of the Legislative Assembly to inform them of the hard work our producers do in feeding our province and the world. In doing so, the Alberta’s pork industry supports over 13,000 jobs and contributes more than $1.6 billion to the provincial economy each year. Our pork industry is a major globally exporter and is a vital part of Canada’s agri-food trade and Alberta’s economic success story.

We have also shared the following five key areas that are top-of-mind for our industry—and where their support can make a meaningful difference. Our board will be meeting with their local MPs and MLAs over the summer to discuss these issues on behalf of Alberta pork producers.

1. Trade and Market Access

Alberta’s pork sector relies on strong global market access. With the upcoming Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) review and ongoing tariff uncertainties, we urge proactive efforts to take necessary actions to address emerging trade barriers and maintain competitive access to international markets.

2. Business Risk Management

Whether it’s climate change, trade challenges, or supply chain disruptions, the risks facing our members continue to grow. Working with us to enhance current Business Risk Management (BRM) programs—such as the Livestock Price Insurance Program (LPIP) and AgriStability—will help producers navigate these uncertainties and strengthen the industry’s long-term viability.

3. Foreign Animal Disease Preparedness

Protecting our livestock from foreign animal diseases threats like African Swine Fever (ASF) requires continued investment in prevention measures such as robust disease surveillance, biosecurity programs, and wild boar-at-large eradication measures. Preparedness is key to safeguarding and supporting farms in the event disease does enter the country.

4. Workforce and Labour

Labour shortages continue to hinder industry growth. Enhancements to the Agriculture Immigration Stream are essential so our members can attract and retain trained workers.

5. Infrastructure and Logistics

Efficient supply chains are critical to feeding Albertans and supplying global markets. Strategic investments in infrastructure, alongside legislation that designates perishable livestock products as essential to the food supply chain, would help ensure product movement is not impeded during national transportation labour disputes.