The Canadian Oilseed…

The Canadian Oilseed Processors Association (COPA) welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback on Ontario’s proposal to have a domestic bio-based content requirement for diesel fuel placed in the Ontario market under the Cleaner Transportation Fuels regulation.

COPA represents Canada’s value-added oilseed processors, including two Ontario facilities - ADM in Windsor and Bunge in Hamilton. The COPA is an industry association that works in partnership with the Canola Council of Canada to represent the interests of oilseed processors in Canada. Oilseed processing is a major component of the canola and soybean economic success story. The oilseed industry (soybean and canola) plays an important role in suppling feedstock to the domestic biofuel market, which provides opportunities for Canadian farmers.

It is recognized that incentives for U.S. biofuel producers, specifically the 45Z tax credit under the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, threatens the competitiveness of Canada’s low carbon diesel production.

The oilseed processing sector supports measures that help Ontario and Canada’s biofuel industry grow and thrive. Supporting domestic biofuel production helps buttress demand for locally and sustainably produced oilseed feedstock, making positive contributions to Ontario’s circular economy. Given the current circumstances facing Canada’s biofuel producers, we are encouraged that the Ontario government is taking action through this proposal. At the same time, the Ontario government must remain agile to the changing trade landscape and continue to consult closely with all stakeholders in the biofuel supply chain on potential future changes to the Ontario CTF that have implications on competitiveness and trade relationships.

The Canadian Oilseed Processors appreciate Ontario’s open invitation for comments. We look forward to ongoing dialogue and the opportunity to continue to support the role of oilseed feedstock as part of the province’s low carbon economy.

Executive Director
COPA