British Columbia farmers are being encouraged to participate in an important new Canada–ASEAN agriculture trade study—a project aimed at improving two‑way business sentiment and uncovering new market opportunities for Canadian agri‑food producers.
The study, led by University of British Columbia (UBC) graduate researchers in the Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) program, is being conducted in partnership with the Canada‑ASEAN Business Council (CABC). Its purpose is to analyze both overall and agriculture‑specific perceptions of Canada–ASEAN trade and to identify key barriers, strengths, and emerging opportunities.
With negotiations for the ASEAN‑Canada Free Trade Agreement nearing completion, researchers say this is a critical moment for Canadian agriculture—especially small and mid‑scale producers who may benefit from expanding markets in fast‑growing Southeast Asia.
Initial research indicates that although Canada–ASEAN two‑way trade has reached record highs, Canada's share of ASEAN’s agricultural imports remains low. In short: the opportunity is there, but Canada may not be tapping into it.
BC farmers are uniquely positioned to weigh in on:
- Export challenges
- Market opportunities
- Supply chain resilience
- Perceptions of trade readiness
- Barriers specific to small and mid‑scale farms
Researchers emphasize that hearing directly from producers will help shape recommendations to strengthen Canada’s agri‑food competitiveness and build more resilient food supply chains.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) includes 10 countries:
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Collectively, ASEAN represents:
- A population of more than 650 million
- A rapidly expanding middle class
- Growing demand for safe, high‑quality agri‑food imports
For Canadian farmers—particularly those producing specialty crops, livestock products, value‑added foods, and sustainability‑focused offerings—ASEAN markets may hold significant yet underdeveloped potential.
The UBC‑CABC research team aims to:
- Better understand the current Canada–ASEAN business climate
- Identify agriculture‑specific barriers and opportunities
- Recommend policy options to strengthen trade partnerships
- Support resilient, diversified food supply chains
- Provide insights ahead of the expected free‑trade agreement completion
The findings will help inform decision‑makers, industry groups, and trade negotiators—making farmer participation invaluable.
Deadline to complete the survey is February 13, 2026. Please click here for the survey.