The introduction of Bill C-202 this week in the House of Commons has reignited discussions around supply management and Canada’s national trade negotiations. The legislation, with the same wording as previous efforts under different bill numbers, would prohibit Canadian trade negotiators from discussing supply-managed sectors during trade talks—a move that critics argue ties the hands of Canada’s negotiators and undermines broader economic interests.
Michael Harvey, executive director of the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA), shares his concerns about the bill’s potential impact. “When you legislatively handcuff [negotiators], it will lead to less comprehensive trade outcomes, which means you’re hurting the entire Canadian economy,” says Harvey.
Harvey also points out the political motivations behind repeated attempts to pass similar legislation, particularly from the Bloc Québécois, framing it as more about regional politics than sound trade policy. “The Bloc has a two-prong strategy,” Harvey explains, “either they achieve things legislatively… or they show Quebec isn’t getting a fair deal, which fits their separation narrative." He adds that this bill, as written, would not be a positive thing for Quebec, overall.
While Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged to “carefully consider” the bill, the outcome is not assured . Harvey remains firm: “Supply management can be protected without this legislation,” he says, noting that trade negotiators are well-equipped to balance Canada’s defensive interests while securing comprehensive trade deals.
