- Canada’s heavy reliance on food imports makes it vulnerable in times of crisis.
- Sweden’s total defence model integrates food preparedness into national security.
- Strengthening local food systems can reduce Canada’s dependence on global trade.
Canada’s food system is deeply intertwined with international trade, leaving the country vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, economic shifts, and political tensions.
By investing in domestic food production, processing, and distribution, Canada can build resilience against global uncertainties. Sweden’s total defence model demonstrates the importance of a self-sustaining food system in times of crisis.
Canada’s Food System: A Weak Link in National Security
Food security is often overlooked in national defense discussions, but it is a fundamental pillar of resilience. A country that cannot feed itself is at the mercy of external forces, whether trade restrictions, economic instability, or political conflict. Canada’s current reliance on food imports, particularly from the U.S., exposes it to these risks.
Sweden’s total defence approach recognizes that a robust domestic food system is as crucial as military preparedness. Canada can learn from this by prioritizing food sovereignty, ensuring that local producers, processors, and distributors have the support and infrastructure they need to sustain the population in times of crisis.
Investing in diversified agriculture and regional food networks would make Canada less dependent on single-source imports. Moving away from monoculture farming and supporting agroecological practices would increase both food security and economic stability for farmers.
Trade diversification is equally important. Strengthening partnerships beyond the U.S.—with countries in Europe, Asia, and Latin America—can safeguard Canada’s access to essential food supplies while reducing geopolitical dependence on a single nation.
Food security is not just about having enough food—it’s about having control over it. By integrating food preparedness into national defense, Canada can build a stronger, more resilient future, ensuring its sovereignty in an increasingly unpredictable world.
“A nation that cannot feed itself is not secure.” – Henry Kissinger
