FCC supports Atlantic and Quebec customers impacted by oyster diseases

For Immediate release

FCC supports Atlantic and Quebec customers impacted by oyster diseases

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, May 8, 2026 – Farm Credit Canada (FCC) is offering support to oyster growers and processors in the Atlantic provinces and Quebec who could face financial hardship as a result of two devastating diseases impacting oysters on Canada’s East Coast.

As producers begin their spring harvest, many fishers are reporting significant losses. Two diseases have impacted oyster production in the Atlantic Ocean in recent years: Multinucleate Sphere Unknown (MSX) and Dermo. Harmless to people, these diseases can be fatal to the mollusk.

“Ensuring the sustainability of PEI’s oyster industry is critical not only to the economy, but to the well-being and livelihoods of fishers, producers, and growers across Atlantic Canada,” said the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “It’s important that we continue providing support like this to ensure those affected are supported.”

“FCC understands the uncertainty that comes with working in the agriculture and food industry,” said J.P. Gervais, ag production executive vice-president at FCC, in announcing customer support. “Unfortunately, high mortalities from these devastating oyster diseases make it difficult for producers to pay their bills.”

“While we cannot control those events, we can ensure producers have the financial flexibility and support they need to navigate uncertainty. FCC is ready to help producers keep their operations moving forward.”

Supporting food producers is core to FCC’s mandate. The Crown corporation will work with customers to come up with solutions for their operation to reduce the financial pressure caused by oyster diseases, considering additional short-term credit options, deferral of principal payments and/or other loan payment schedule amendments. FCC may offer a combination of options based on the individual needs of its customers, since each financial situation is unique.

Customers in the Atlantic provinces and Quebec are encouraged to contact their FCC relationship manager or the FCC Customer Service Centre at 1-888-332-3301 to discuss their individual situation and options.

About FCC
FCC is the leading lender in Canadian agriculture and food. FCC invests in industry success through innovation, productivity and sustainability. Customers rely on FCC for financing, capital, AgExpert management software, knowledge and industry connections. As a trusted partner and commercial Crown corporation that reinvests profits into ag and food, FCC is essential in building a stronger, more prosperous food industry for all Canadians. fcc.ca


For more information, photos or interviews, contact:

Éva Larouche
Media Relations
Farm Credit Canada
1-888-397-3217
eva.larouche@fcc.ca