The introduction of Roundup Ready soybeans into the Canadian marketplace in the mid-1990’s significantly changed the landscape of soybean production for Canadian farmers. Prior to their introduction, production costs for soybeans were higher, weed control was difficult and yields with conventional herbicide systems were significantly lower.

With the introduction of Roundup Ready technology to soybeans, the crop became tolerant to Roundup^® agricultural herbicide, ushering in a new level of weed control, together with unprecedented crop safety and increased yield potential. Canadian farmers quickly adopted this technology, making the Roundup Ready system the standard for soybean production in Canada. Today, more than 60% of soybean acres in this country are planted using the Roundup Ready system and users of the technology report a 95% satisfaction rating.¹

In 2011, however, changes are coming to Roundup Ready soybean production in Canada, with the expiry of the original Roundup Ready soybean technology patent. These changes culminate in 2013, which represents the first opportunity for Canadian farmers to plant original Roundup Ready soybeans from saved seed. But what happens between 2011 and 2013? What are the opportunities and obligations? And, what does the future hold for soybean production in Canada with Roundup Ready and other production technologies? Answers to these and other related questions are addressed in this website. We encourage you to consult it as part of your planning and decision-making regarding the role of soybean technology in your farm or farm-related business.