PSCC 2026: 3 Days in Halifax

From September 15 to 17, more than 350 delegates from 23 countries gathered at the Westin Nova Scotian in Halifax for three days of networking and market insights at North America’s largest pulse and special crops event.

Insights on the issues shaping the sector

Industry experts and market analysts covered transportation and market access, along with Canadian and global outlooks for peas, lentils, beans, chickpeas and special crops. The speaker lineup drew from across the value chain, including traders, processors, port authorities, logistics providers, the Canadian Grain Commission and Pulse Canada.

At the Global Economic Outlook, Farm Credit Canada Senior Economist Graeme Crosbie outlined 3 themes shaping the year ahead for Canadian agriculture: interest rates, trade and margins. Interest rates have likely bottomed, and input costs remain high, but firmer grain prices and improving producer sentiment offer some support.

China, India and the Future of Pulse Demand, moderated by Pulse Canada President Greg Cherewyk, brought together two specialists, one focused on India’s policy and market signals and the other on China’s industry and government direction. The discussion compared where the two markets are converging and diverging, and what that means for exporters selling pulses into them, with a focus on the mechanics that move these markets rather than the headlines.

AGT Food and Ingredients and CPSC President Murad Al-Katib brought together leaders from across the supply chain for a panel discussion that went beyond standard port updates, with conversations that focused on the operating issues that matter most to shippers: reliability, routing, transloading capacity, gateway performance and the effects of global shipping disruption.

Just as valuable were the conversations outside the sessions. In the hallways, on the trade show floor and over dinner, new partnerships started and long-standing ones grew stronger.

Evenings to remember

PSCC 2026 opened on the evening of September 15 with a welcome reception at the Via Rail Station Halifax.

The Harbour Social took delegates to Pier 21, a national historic site that tells the stories of immigration that helped shape Canada. In the spirit of the venue, attendees were invited to wear their roots: cultural attire, a regional symbol, or anything else that reflected home. For an industry that connects growers and buyers across 23 countries, it was a fitting way to celebrate the global community that brings PSCC together.

Honouring two industry builders

Peter Twynstra received the CPSC Industry Appreciation Award. Over his career, he took Ontario beans to 37 countries and helped build organizations like Pulse Canada.

Renald Parent was honoured posthumously with the President’s Award, accepted by his son Robert. Renald’s legacy of integrity and community building in St. Joseph, Manitoba, continues to inspire the industry.

Looking ahead to 2027

Next year, the Canadian and global pulse industry will descend on the oldest fortified city in North America – Quebec City.

Preparation is underway to ensure that PSCC 2027 will provide delegates with a valuable week of learning, networking, and an unforgettable cultural experience in one of Canada’s oldest cities.

We look forward to seeing you in Quebec City for PSCC 2027.