b'RETAIL STRATEGYabout SRM? Miller said. The truth is, SRM isnt about an endpointits about building a system that can continually improve. And while this policy paper gives us the clearest sense yet of where were heading, the real work is only beginning.He points to responsiveness in proposals such as incorpora-tion by reference, which would allow Canadas seed system to adapt more quickly as technologies like drones, genetic testing, and digital tools evolve. One of the biggest challenges, according to Miller, is the broader context: a government under fiscal pressure.For over a century, CSGA has proven that were a trusted partner capable of delivering certification. Giving us more responsibility doesnt just strengthen the seed systemit allows the CFIA to focus on the roles only government can Carla Ventin of Mile26 Strategy Doug Miller, executive director,deliver.Canadian Seed GrowersAt the same time, he cautions against over-regulation. Some Association proposals, he argues, would be better addressed through opera-tional guidance rather than being locked into regulations that could limit flexibility.Perhaps most concerning is what Miller calls a fundamen-RETAIL STRATEGY LENS: SELLING IN tal gap in the Canadian system: the absence of data on how THE AGE OF UNCERTAINTY much seed is certified each year.Miller believes that with proper reporting, Canada could For seed retailers, todays sales environment isnt just challenging build a national, anonymized dataset that would help growers, its paradoxical. Farmers are both cautious and opportunistic, oftenindustry, and policymakers alike.making seemingly contradictory decisions within the same operation. Even as efficiencies are sought, Miller stresses the impor-tance of protecting core elements of Canadas seed infrastruc- Dual Mindsets at Play ture. CSGAs pre-budget submission urged the government to Some customers are locking in prices early, seizing favourable termskeep these operations strong. At CSGA, were not thinking to hedge against volatility. Others are deliberately holding back,about next quarterwere thinking decades ahead, Miller waiting to see how trade negotiations, canola duties, or market shiftssaid. A properly resourced CFIA is essential to that future.play out. Retailers must be prepared to support both strategies. Looking ahead, Miller believes Canada must also have aLater Buying Windows national conversation about the future of public breeding.Expect purchasing decisions to stretch further into the fall. FlexibilityPublic breeding was one of Canadas original nation-build-in inventory and financing options will be key as growers delay finaling projects, he said. Farmers, commissions, and companies crop plans. have invested millions into these programs, and cracks are starting to show. If we dont plan for what comes next, thoseUncertainty as the Norm cracks will widen. Ross warns that uncertainty is no longer episodicits structural. Climate risk, trade negotiations, and shifting federal priorities mean volatility is the baseline. Retail ResponseThe path forward is about building trust through guidance. Position your business as more than a supplier: be the advisor who helpsWatch our full-length webinar on customers navigate mixed signals, balance risk, and see through thethis topic!noise. SUPPORTED BY: ENDORSED BY:42 SEEDWORLD.COM/CANADA NOVEMBER 2025'