Quebec's reserves of maple syrup almost depleted, says new report
Quebec's strategic maple syrup reserve has been depleted due to rising global demand and export growth. Producers warn that without government support, the industry risks losing market share if weather conditions negatively impact future sap yields.
Why it matters
The depletion of this reserve highlights the vulnerability of agricultural commodities to climate-dependent production and shifting international trade pressures.
Québec Maple Syrup Producers president Luc Goulet says government support will be needed to ensure the industry doesn't miss out on opportunities to grow the sector.
Maple syrup yields depend on weather conditions. As a result, the producers' association has established a strategic reserve to ensure prices and supply remain relatively stable.
Last year, U.S. commercial customers stocked up, fearing that U.S. President Donald Trump would carry out his threat to impose tariffs.
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Goulet says the buffer has been exhausted as sales continue to rise.
"Our strategic reserve has been reduced to zero," Goulet said in an interview at the release of a report on the industry's economic benefits.
That means the industry could lose customers if weather conditions are less favourable for maple sap flow, he said.
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