Key facts
- CFIA will implement new traceability requirements for goats, sheep, and cervids.
- Cattle and bison traceability requirements are delayed.
- CFIA will continue discussions with the cattle sector on traceability.
- Producers cited concerns about cost, technology, and tag retention.
- A majority of webinar participants believed traceability is critical for disease preparedness.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced on June 2 that it will proceed with new traceability requirements for producers of goats, sheep, and cervids, aligning them with existing regulations for cattle and bison. Updated pig traceability requirements, which have industry support, will also move forward. However, the CFIA stated it will continue to engage with the cattle sector through industry-led forums to enhance Canada's traceability system in preparation for potential disease outbreaks.
Earlier this year, cattle producers across Canada expressed strong opposition to the initially planned traceability regulations. Industry organizations called for a halt, citing concerns that producers would face significant costs and lack the necessary technology to record animal movements. During a Saskatchewan Cattle Association webinar attended by approximately 95 people, discussions revealed a divided opinion on stronger traceability measures, with some participants expressing distrust in the CFIA. Informal polls from the session indicated that 60% of respondents felt Canada was adequately prepared for a disease outbreak, while 70% acknowledged traceability as a crucial element of disease preparedness. When asked about the primary challenges with traceability, 36% identified tag retention, 18% cited the need for more advanced technology or other reasons, 11% pointed to reporting software, and 4% mentioned rural connectivity issues. Thirteen percent reported facing no challenges. Directors of the Saskatchewan Cattle Association acknowledged issues with tag retention and producer confidence in the CFIA, with Chair Chad Ross stating the agency needs to improve. Concerns about data protection were also raised.