Understanding proposed updates to livestock traceability regulations 

A robust and effective traceability system finds a balance in technical reporting and practicality. 

Traceability is the ability to follow the movement of an animal or food product through different stages of the supply chain. The ability to track livestock through their lifecycle relies on three pillars: premise identification (PID), animal identification, and animal movement.

The potential benefits of a strong livestock traceability system extend from on-farm emergency preparedness to increased international trade security.  While knowing where any animal is at any given time may be a gold standard for some, livestock industry representatives recognize there’s a fine balance. Traceability systems need to be science-based and practical, ensuring they don’t create unnecessary burdens in day-to-day operations. 

In 2016, the Cattle Implementation Plan (CIP), a traceability roadmap developed by the cattle industry for government consideration, was endorsed by 19 organizations. Since then, industry and government have continued discussions on traceability, with a common goal of a world-class system that is effective in supporting trade relationships and emergency preparedness, while also respecting on-the-ground practicalities.

With proposed federal updates now on the horizon, Alberta Beef Producers (ABP), is continuing its advocacy and collaboration efforts, guided by our producer-developed policy on traceability. In partnership with other provincial and national organizations, ABP is committed to ensuring producer voices are at the table.

Proposed Updates for 2026

In 2023, CFIA pre-published proposed amendments to Part XV of the Health of Animals Act, with a public comment period following shortly thereafter. Following the report on those findings, and further consultation with industry, CFIA is expecting to publish the final version in Canada Gazette II (CGII) before April 2026.  

The proposed regulatory updates are largely consistent with the CIP. While there are many details associated with any regulatory update, some of the most important updates for producers include:  

• A requirement to obtain, a premises identification (PID) number from your provincial government. (If you already have a PID, you will need to keep the account information current.) 
• A requirement to include your PID number when:  
  • Purchasing approved indicators (tags)  
  • Reporting information related to identification of cattle and their movement   
  • Reporting the arrival of cattle (move-in reporting) within 7 days     

A one-year window is anticipated between CGII publication and the regulations coming into force. This gives industry and CCIA time to properly prepare and adjust.

Read: FAQs on the proposed regulations

Stepping Up Traceability Early

Cattle producers in Alberta are already one step ahead. PIDs have been required since 2010 in Alberta, and operators of feedlots over 1000-head have been reporting move-in data within seven days since 2010 as well. 

As we look to 2026, producers who are interested in being early adopters of the updates can start right away. 

Obtain or update PIDs

In addition to planning for, controlling, and preventing the spread of animal disease, Alberta’s PID system is also used as an early warning system to notify animal owners of a natural disaster such as a flood or wildfire that could affect their animals. This is why it is important that the contact information associated with your PID is up to date. 

Learn more about Alberta PIDs, including how to apply or update your information, via the Government of Alberta. Log in or sign up here. 

Start to report move-in events

The core information that will be required to be reported in a move-in event includes: 

• PID of departure site 
• PID of arrival site  
• Date cattle left the departure site  
• Date cattle received at arrival site 
• Individual tag numbers of the cattle arriving at your site  
• License plate number, including province/territory/state, of the truck that delivered the cattle  

Move-in events can be reported online within the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency’s (CCIA) Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS) or the CLTS MOBO app. See how via the CLTS Resource Centre.  

Private tools, apps and programs which integrate reporting with CLTS are also available and can help streamline workflows for some operators. 

Learn more about Canada’s traceability system

• CCIA has more information and resources available online. 
• Producers and industry stakeholders can participate in information sessions hosted by CCIA, producer organizations, or CFIA to learn more about the details or ask questions.   

Implementing the Last Pillar

These updates to Canada’s traceability system formalize the third and final pillar of traceability: animal movement. Together with PID and animal identification, move-in information will boost the confidence of our trading partners and improve our readiness to respond to emergencies.