As Canadian farmers brace for increased tariffs and political uncertainty, Florian Possberg, a partner with Polar Pork Farms, is urging the need for strong, practical-minded leadership in Ottawa—leaders who can represent agriculture’s interests and engage in productive trade dialogue with other common-sense governments.
With newly imposed Chinese tariffs on Canadian agricultural products and threatened tariffs from the U.S., all eyes are on Canada’s upcoming federal election, set for April 28th.
Possberg reflects on the shifting political landscape, noting that earlier optimism about a potential majority Conservative government has now given way to uncertainty.
“We don’t know if we’re going to get a Liberal government or a Conservative government,” said Possberg. “We don’t know if it will be a majority or a minority. If there’s no strong mandate coming out of April 28th, that uncertainty will only continue—and that’s something we’ve been battling for some time now.”
Possberg points out that a Conservative government could bring more alignment with the needs of western Canadian farmers, given the region’s importance to the party’s base. In contrast, he believes Liberal leadership often focuses more heavily on Ontario- and Quebec-based industries such as automotive manufacturing, overlooking the agricultural challenges faced in the west.
“Our hope as farmers is that a Conservative government would be more sensitive to our situation and what our needs are,” he added.
Possberg’s broader message is one of pragmatism: farmers need advocates in government who understand the realities of trade and agriculture—and who are willing to negotiate in good faith with equally pragmatic international partners.
“We need strong advocates in government that are common sense and willing to negotiate with those representing other countries that are common sense as well,” Possberg emphasized.
As election day approaches, the Canadian pork industry continues to seek clarity, stability, and leadership that puts producers first.
