OTTAWA, November 25, 2011: Producers will now be able to get quality seed
faster with improved seed import procedures. The Canadian Food Inspection
Agency (CFIA) will now have the ability to streamline pre-clearance procedures
for imported seed, preventing backlog at the border and allowing approved seed
to reach its destination more quickly.

"This new procedure provides the flexibility needed to get safe,
quality seed into the hands of producers faster," said Agriculture
Minister Gerry Ritz. "This small change will benefit producers, importers
and the entire Canadian agriculture sector by making sure import procedures
reflect the speed of commerce."

Effective immediately, the CFIA can complete the
conformity assessment and issue the required documents in advance for all
imported seed that meets Canadian import requirements. When the shipment
arrives at the border, the associated documentation will be verified and the
seed can continue to its destination.

The Government of Canada is committed to reducing barriers to trade for our
producers while protecting Canada's plant resource base from pests and
diseases. The CFIA
will continue to monitor imported seed lots through regular sampling and
testing, both at the destination and in the market place.

The CFIA 's
seed sampling and testing program is designed to maintain a supply of quality
seed for Canadian seed companies and producers while preventing the entry of
prohibited seeds from noxious weeds and invasive plants.

For more information

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
National Media Relations: 613-773-6600

Additional information:

Notice to industry: New Pre-clearance Procedure for Importers of Seed

Questions and Answers: New Pre-clearance Procedure for Seed Importers

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