Production increased sharply to 112,000 t in 1998-1999, as sunflower seed prices strengthened and prices of most alternative crops weakened. There was a further increase in production to 122,000 t in 1999-2000. Production of confectionary sunflower seeds has been increasing relative to oilseed varieties in recent years due to increased processing activity and marketing opportunities on the prairies, and a price premium over the oilseed type. Manitoba accounted for about 68 percent of the production in 1999-2000, followed by Saskatchewan at 29 percent, Alberta at 2.5 percent and Ontario at 0.5 percent. Marketing Sunflower seed is sold on the open market to dealers located mostly in Manitoba.
Sunflower seed is shipped bulk in trucks or rail cars.
Some sunflower seed, especially the confectionary type, is grown under production contracts which guarantee a price for part of the production. Market development activities are led by the Canadian Special Crops Association, an industry organization representing traders, exporters and processors. The Canadian Grain Commission administers quality standards for sunflower seed. The National Sunflower Association of Canada represents the industry in Canada for producers, processors and exporters. Domestic Use Canadian domestic use, which includes food, feed, seed, dockage and waste accounts for about 60 percent of production.