Did you know – Canadians who deal in import, export, or interprovincial trade of fresh produce, under the Licensing and Arbitration Regulations, require either a CFIA license or a DRC Membership? Furthermore, when deciding between the two over 85% of those choose a DRC Membership.

DRC Press Release

Media Contact: Andrea Asbreuk, Member Services & Marketing
Phone 613-234-0982 | aasbreuk@fvdrc.com

OTTAWA, Ontario (September 25, 2013) – DRC MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED TO CROSS CANADIAN BORDER

Canadian importers of fresh fruits and vegetables must have either a membership with the Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) or a license with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Currently 91% of Canadian buyers have opted for the DRC membership to satisfy federal requirements.

All loads crossing the border into Canada must be imported by or consigned to a DRC member or CFIA licensee. This is important to both buyer and seller, as loads will be stopped and potentially turned back at the border if this condition is not met. While the requirement has been in place for nearly two years, DRC continues to receive panicked calls from buyers or sellers whose loads are being held.

“In some cases we are able to accommodate a very expedited membership process to help clear the load, but only when the buyer is able to provide all of the required documentation including references from current DRC members,” said Fred Webber, president and CEO. “In other cases however, if the applicant does not have clear documentation and good references it can take several days to vet and investigate the application. There are also cases where an applicant needs to post financial security if the vetting process warrants it.”

It is essential for keeping trade on track that sellers verify their Canadian buyer is a DRC member or has a valid federal produce license to avoid complications along the marketing chain. Regardless of fault, a delayed and possibly damaged load becomes every ones problem.

What is the DRC?

DRC is a non-profit, membership-based organization providing education, consultation, mediation, and arbitration to the produce trade. DRC works closely with industry associations and governments on behalf of members to reform legislation, make federal inspections more accessible, develop best practices, and level the playing field for participants. Governed by a Board of Directors, DRC members represent all facets of the produce industry as well as the transportation industry dealing in fresh fruit and vegetables. Canadian buyers who are DRC members are exempt from a federal produce license. For more information about DRC please visit FVDRC.com.

How can the DRC help me?

The DRC’s day-to-day focus is helping their members resolve disputes.  For their complete Dispute Resolution Model, please click here.  If you’re curious if they have the answers you’re looking for, ask yourself:

• Am I a Canadian looking to import, export, or sell fresh produce interprovincially?
• Am I looking to develop new business relationships?
• Am I a shipper looking for PACA-like rules in Canada?
• Do I have questions about an inspection certificate?
• Do I have an issue with a carrier, broker, receiver or shipper and need advice?
• Am I looking for educational resources for me and my employees?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, call the DRC at 613-234-0982, they can help!!!

Who can become a Member?

DRC Members are comprised of Canadians dealing in interprovincial trade, import and export of fresh produce and shippers who sell fresh fruits and vegetables to buyers anywhere in North America.

Fees and Membership Applications

Please click here to determine your DRC Membership Fees (page 4 of the application form).

Canadian Import Requirements

On every Confirmation of Sale, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) mandates that each importer of record must declare their federal produce license number, or their DRC membership number, unless they are shown to be exempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

For a complete list of Frequently Asked Questions, please click here.

Endorsements

The DRC is proud to be endorsed by:

• Canadian Food Inspection Agency
• United States Department of Agriculture
• Secretaria de Agricultura, Ganadería, Desarrollo  Rural, Pesca y Alimentación (SAGARPA)
• Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada
• Asociación Nacional de Agrupaciones de Comerciantes de Centros de Abastos (CONACCA)
• Asociación Nacional de Tiendas de Autoservicio y Departamentales  (ANTAD)
• California Grape & Tree Fruit League
• Canadian Council of Grocery Distributors
• Canadian Horticultural Council
• Canadian Produce Marketing Association
• Central California Grower-Shippers Association
• Confederación de Asociaciones Agrícolas del Estado de Sinaloa  (CAADES)
• Consejo Nacional Agropecuario (CNA)
• Florida Citrus Packers
• Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association
• Florida Tomato Exchange
• Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
• Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Association
• Idaho Grower-Shippers Association
• North American Perishable Agricultural Receivers
• Northwest Horticultural Council
• Pear Bureau Northwest
• Produce Marketing Association
• Texas Produce Association
• United Fresh Produce Association
• Western Growers

Contact the DRC

Hours of Operation 8:30am – 5:00pm (EST)

For a complete staff directory click here.