b'CSGA SPONSORED CONTENTCanadas Next-Gen Seed Certification System: Time to Think Bigpicture and outline strategies for Canada to remain com-With the Seed Regulatorypetitive in agriculture for years to come. The CFIA will reach out to stakeholders next winter Modernization review underway, thefor broader engagement and consultation, so the time for discussion is now. As a result, CSGA is providing an over-Canadian Seed Growers Associationview of its recommendations and perspectives on SRM to help stakeholders appreciate what is possible for the envisions a modern and agile seedsystem and spark conversation.certification system. CSGA developed these recommendations in consulta-tion with seed growers, plant breeders, provincial advi-sors, and company representatives. The concepts put everyones interests at the forefront, from variety develop-ers, seed growers, government, and everyone who works IN THE 1920s, a new federal Seeds Act named the Canadianto benefit Canadian agriculture.Seed Growers Association (CSGA) as the authority for certification of seed crops in Canada. Since then, CSGAWhy the Industry Needs a Strong CFIA Presencehas played a prominent leadership role in the CanadianIt is the CSGAs position that the CFIA should continue to seed sector. be ultimately responsible for the seed certification program.The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA),The CFIA authorizes competent individuals and organi-with the support of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canadazations to perform activities that result in official seed cer-(AAFC), has begun the formal process of Seedtification under its supervision. This model developed and Regulatory Modernization (SRM)a review of theevolved over many years, as government looked for savings Seeds Regulations. The goal is to align regulations withand industry, which is faster and nimbler, proved it was leading industry practices, improve consistency, reducecapable. This approach has served seed sector stakeholders complexity, and strengthen consumer protection. Fullywell, and the CFIA should continue to be responsible for updated regulations will reduce unnecessary regulatoryCanadas seed certification program. burden and provide flexibility to support innovation andThe integrity of Canadas seed certification system is changes in science and technology. SRM working groupsessential to the reliable assurance of varietal identity and are conducting in-depth analyses of different parts of thea thriving agricultural economy. Additionally, the interna-regulatory framework to develop options for change. Thistional movement of seed often requires official assurances is an opportune time for the sector to think about the bigfrom government, like with the OECD Seed Schemes. 24GERMINATION.CAJULY 2021'