Canadian beef industry works together to tackle trade challenges and go global

The Canadian Beef Advisors are excited to unveil the 2025-30 National Beef Strategy, which aims to enhance profitability, growth, and the global reputation of Canadian beef as a high-quality product.

“The National Beef Strategy is about the future. We want people to know that the beef industry is preparing the way for the next generation,” says Bob Lowe, Chair of Public and Stakeholder Engagement.

The Canadian Beef Advisors, is a collaborative effort by Canadian national beef sector organizations including the Beef Cattle Research Council, Canadian Beef Breeds Council, Canada Beef, Canadian Cattle Association (and its provincial member associations), Canadian Meat Council, Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, and the National Cattle Feeders’ Association.

The Advisors emphasize that a united industry is stronger and benefits everyone involved, both now and in the future. This collaboration is crucial as the industry navigates current trade challenges and seeks global opportunities. The National Beef Strategy promotes cooperation and coordination among national organizations to maximize resources for producers and processors.

Significant progress was made under the 2020-24 strategy, and the goal is to build on this momentum.

“Tracking goals has been a productive exercise. We are seeing wins, and the Beef Advisors are excited about where we can go next,” comments Nathan Phinney, Chair of the Canadian Beef Advisors.

While recognizing the important role beef cattle play in environmental sustainability, it is also acknowledged that producers have faced challenges such as multi-year droughts, higher interest rates, and increased input costs. Maintaining a strong Canada-U.S. trade relationship and addressing advocacy issues remain key priorities.

The National Strategy aims to achieve the Beef Industry 2030 goals, aligned with the vision of a dynamic, profitable Canadian cattle and beef industry known for its superior value, safety, innovation, and sustainable production methods.

As Calvin Vaags, of the Canadian Meat Council, notes, “A growing population and middle class means that the demand for protein is outpacing production, driving prices higher. The protein pie is getting bigger, and Canada, as a relatively low emissions intensity producer, deserves a seat at the table.”

The Canadian Beef Advisors consist of elected leaders and staff from seven national beef organizations responsible for policy, marketing, research, and sustainability. This diverse group of experience industry representatives advances the strategy with stakeholders, provides recommendations on future direction, and reports on progress toward strategy goals.

Learn more about achieving a dynamic and profitable Canadian cattle and beef industry at www.beefstrategy.com.