E154 Dairy Showdown: Canadian Quotas vs. American Free Market – Who's Right?

In this episode of The Bullvine podcast, hosts Bella and Douglas dive into the complex world of North American dairy farming, exploring the stark differences between the Canadian and American dairy systems.

Key Points:

1. Canadian Dairy System:

• Supply management system with production limits

• High quota costs (up to $58,000 per cow in Alberta)

• Guaranteed minimum prices and market protection

• Challenges: aging farmers, high entry barriers, regional disparities

2. American Dairy System:

• Free-market approach with larger operations

• Average U.S. dairy milks 225 cows vs. 85 in Canada

• High volatility in milk prices

• Rapid consolidation: 1.3% of farms produce over 1/3 of U.S. milk

3. Consumer Impact:

• Canada: Higher milk prices, limited variety

• U.S.: Lower ...