POLITICAL LEADERS MUST PRIORITIZE TRADE AND STRENGTHEN CANADA’S GLOBAL STANDING IN THE 45TH GENERAL ELECTION CAMPAIGN

March 31, 2025 – WINNIPEG, MB – As Canada heads into the 45th General Election, Pulse Canada is calling on all political parties to put trade front and centre. Canada’s position as a trusted global trading partner must be a priority.

Trade is the lifeblood of Canada’s economy, particularly in agriculture, where over 85% of pulse production is exported each year. To ensure a prosperous future for Canadian farmers, processors, and exporters, Canada needs stable, diversified, and rules-based international markets.

“Canada cannot afford to rely on empty rhetoric,” said Pulse Canada Chair Terry Youzwa. “It’s time for real diplomacy to eliminate trade barriers. Our future depends on leaders who are ready to champion a bold, proactive trade agenda.”

With a shifting and increasingly unpredictable global trade environment, Canada’s future depends on cultivating strong, reliable markets—both within North America and beyond. China, for example, imports on average over $700 million worth of Canadian yellow peas each year. Recent trade disputes—including new tariffs on peas, canola, meat, and seafood—highlight the urgent need for a diplomatic solution.

Following a recent trip to China, Pulse Canada President Greg Cherewyk and Saskatchewan Pulse Growers Executive Director Carl Potts reinforced the message that engagement and diplomacy are not just possible—they’re crucial.

“As a nation built on trade, Canada must lead by example, strengthening relationships through mutual respect and open markets,” said Cherewyk. “Now more than ever, those running for office must demonstrate they understand the needs of our sector and share a clear plan to ensure Canada remains a global leader in agricultural exports. We expect that plan to include immediate engagement with China to resolve the current dispute threatening one of our largest markets for peas.”

Pulse Canada is encouraging its members to engage with local candidates to understand their plans for securing Canada’s place in the global marketplace. The organization will continue to work with politicians of all stripes to advance the interests of Canada’s pulse sector.

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For more information, media may contact:

Jeff English
Vice President, Marketing & Communications
Pulse Canada
204-960-1622
jenglish@pulsecanada.com