Since the introduction of Canada’s Organic Products Regulations in 2009, the organic sector has grown steadily—driven by rising consumer demand and the commitment of farmers and businesses. Operating across diverse production systems and under rigorous standards referenced in the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations, the sector delivers well-documented economic, environmental, and social benefits. However, unlike other jurisdictions, Canada lacks an organic policy and consistent public investment to fully develop the sector and realize its potential.

To address this, the Canadian Organic Alliance— a partnership between the Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA), Canadian Organic Growers (COG), and Organic Federation of Canada (OFC)—has developed the OAP through extensive industry engagement. This proposed roadmap is designed to:

• Enable the Canadian agri-food sector to capture untapped opportunities and meet growing demand for organic products at home and abroad.

• Position organic as a key contributor to economic development, sustainable food systems, and climate resilience

• Secure dedicated public support and investment

What is in the Plan?

Inspired by successful international models and grounded in years of work across Canada, the OAP proposes 16 strategic actions across three pillars:

1. Strengthen Policy, Regulatory and Data Infrastructure

2. Accelerate Growth and Innovation in Organic Production

3. Grow Organic Markets and Demand

By defining both sector and government roles, the OAP serves as both a guide for sector initiatives and workplans and as an outline for a strategic policy framework for organic aligned with national priorities. The OAP is intended to be an evergreen document, to be updated as the sector and broader context evolve.

Your input is needed

Before the final version is published in November, the COA wants to hear from you. Please complete the short survey by October 3 at midnight PST. 

Reflect on These Questions:

• Do you support this action plan?

• Will the proposed actions support the growth of organic production in Canada?

• What else should be added to meet your needs?

• Do the measures go far enough to stabilize and expand markets?

• Will this plan encourage farmers to transition to organic and support those already certified?

• Is the environmental impact of organic agriculture recognized and promoted at its true value?

How to Participate: 

 Read the draft Organic Action Plan in English and French

 Take the Survey & Share Your Feedback