Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) has formally notified the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) of its intention to leave, effective July 1, 2026, citing persistent issues with transparency, governance and value to Alberta producers.

In a notice to the CCA, ABP emphasized long-standing concerns rather than a sudden decision. Key points include calls for fairer provincial funding formulas, maintenance of the $0.53 levy on retained cattle marketings, greater financial oversight through an elected finance chair, activation of a full audit committee, unfreezing of board seats, rebalancing of representation—especially given that ABP contributes over half of CCA’s operating budget but holds only seven of 24 seats—and an independent review of governance, including staff recruitment practices.

Doug Roxburgh, chair of ABP, stressed that national industry organizations must uphold high standards in communication and administration—standards the CCA does not currently meet. After seeing little meaningful progress or willingness to change, the board approved the withdrawal. ABP stated its responsibility to ensure producer dollars support organizations that reflect the values of the province’s beef industry.

The decision will not disrupt national funding programs such as the Beef Check-Off Agency or its service providers, including Canada Beef, Public and Stakeholder Engagement, and the Beef Cattle Research Council.

These organizations will continue to provide research, promotion and industry coordination across the country. Industry observers note that the move is unlikely to affect consumer prices or beef supply, as production capacity and regulatory oversight remain unchanged. The change centres on governance and representation rather than operations, with Alberta continuing to play a major role in Canada’s beef sector.

The withdrawal also places a spotlight on the balance of representation within national bodies, particularly given Alberta’s contribution to CCA’s budget and the size of its cattle industry. Alberta is home to approximately 4.7 million head of cattle—nearly 40 per cent of the national herd—and leads the country in feedlot and processing capacity. While the CCA leadership has expressed surprise at the announcement, discussions between the organizations are expected to continue before the departure takes effect.