On March 12, 2026, Mike Hollingworth, Acting Deputy Commissioner of the Competition Bureau, presented an opening statement to the Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture and Forestry regarding food security in Canada.

The Competition Bureau is dedicated to promoting competition to benefit Canadian consumers and businesses, enforcing the Competition Act across all sectors. Hollingworth highlighted that increased competition leads to lower costs and greater opportunities for Canadians, driving productivity and innovation.

During the discussion, Hollingworth acknowledged the financial strain Canadians face, particularly concerning food affordability. He noted that while competition is a significant factor affecting food security, it is one of many elements to consider.

The Bureau's 2023 market study on the retail grocery market revealed that the industry is highly concentrated, with five major grocery chains dominating the market. The study identified barriers to competition, such as property controls that hinder the establishment of new grocery stores, and also pointed out innovations like online grocery services.

Enforcement actions have been taken against major players in the grocery sector, including investigations into property controls used by Sobeys and Loblaws. Loblaws has committed to ending its use of such controls, which the Bureau is monitoring. Additionally, Empire Company Limited agreed to remove a property control that restricted competition in Crowsnest Pass, Alberta.

The Bureau also reviews mergers throughout the food supply chain, ensuring competition is maintained in areas like grain handling and grocery retail. Recent amendments to the Competition Act have strengthened the Bureau's ability to address anti-competitive conduct and enhance its investigative tools.

Hollingworth concluded by reiterating the Bureau's commitment to prioritizing affordability in its work, particularly in the food sector, while adhering to legal obligations regarding confidentiality in investigations.