2025/26 Business plan approved by Agency
Plan focuses in key areas for the sustainability of industry investments
The Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off and Canada’s Beef Import Levy is estimated to bring in approximately $17,415,373 in gross revenue.
Moving into the 2025/26 fiscal year, eight of nine provinces are collecting a $2.50 national check-off, with Ontario and the Import Levy collecting $1 per head or equivalent. It should be noted that Ontario has passed a resolution to increase their check-off to $2.50 and will be working towards implementation.
The Agency projects the total check-off revenue, after 5% administration is deducted, to be allocated as 54% to market development and promotion, 28% to research, 13% to provincial initiatives and 5% to public and stakeholder engagement (PSE). These allocations are set annually by each provincial cattle association one full year in advance and apply only to check-off dollars; the net beef import levy is allocated to the promotion of unbranded beef and veal in Canada.
The Agency Members approved a 2025/26 administration budget at $1,335,550, over a total revenue of $1,011,941, which includes check-off and import levy administration fees, as well as other revenue from the administration of the Pork Import Levy, inspection revenue and interest earned.
The Agency plans to invest $323,609 from the surplus reserve into targeted and measurable programs and special projects. The Agency’s programs will support the operations and Board, as well as the Agency’s strategic objectives.
Three major projects will be undertaken in the new fiscal year:
Levies Order/Mechanism Review: The Agency is working closely with the provincial cattle associations and cattle marketers across the country to explore a change to the check-off collection mechanism. Since the implementation of check-off collection over 20 years ago, there has been no change to how the levies are calculated and collected on cattle that are marketed across provincial borders. By seeking to modernize the mechanism, the Agency and all provincial associations will work to ensure a unified and sustainable funding strategy for the entire industry through check-off collection. The Agency is committed to working with all stakeholders involved when making a final recommendation on any changes to the mechanism in the levies order.
Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SRED) Tax Credit: The Agency is also continuing to work with consultants on the exploration of a Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR & ED) tax credit program for Canadian beef producers. The SR & ED tax incentive program in Canada aims to encourage businesses, including those in the agriculture sector, to conduct research and development activities. The program provides tax credits and incentives to offset the costs associated with eligible research and development projects. The Agency continues to work with external consultants, as well as the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) to navigate challenges and explore opportunities to implement the credit.
Import Levy Engagement: The Agency plans to connect with importers in a more direct way in the upcoming year. The goal of this higher level of engagement is to ensure that importers recognize the value that the import levy delivers to the beef industry, and that funds are invested into ensuring beef remains a staple in Canadian diets. Importers can expect to see more information on how the dollars are specifically invested by Canada Beef.
