Competition Bureau launches review of Canada’s food supply chain

The Competition Bureau has launched an examination of competition across Canada’s food supply chain, seeking input from industry stakeholders and consumers as food prices continue to strain household budgets.

The review will examine competition in three areas: food production and processing, transportation and distribution and retail pricing practices. The bureau said it will assess issues including loyalty programs, pricing algorithms, shrinkflation and skimpflation.

The bureau is inviting Canadians and organizations involved in the food supply chain to submit feedback through an online form by July 31. It also plans to hold roundtable discussions and meet with industry groups in the coming months to identify barriers to competition and potential improvements.

A final report is expected in spring 2027 and will include findings and recommendations to governments aimed at strengthening competition across the food supply chain.

“The cost of food matters to all Canadians, and strong competition can help keep prices in check,” said Jeanne Pratt, interim commissioner of competition. “Our examination builds on our earlier work in the retail grocery sector and will look at all parts of the food supply chain. If you have experience in any sector along that supply chain, we want to hear from you. Your input will help us find solutions that support competition and affordability.”