Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I will take the first stab at this and my colleague, Nicolas, can add additional material.
Article 12 of the UPOV 91 convention does state that we can take into account the results of growing tests or other trials that have already been carried out. The core components of UPOV are that breeders need to demonstrate that their product is distinct, uniform, and stable. These are common to all UPOV member countries.
Requiring tests and trials to be carried out in each jurisdiction often significantly increases the cost to the developer and can delay the introduction of innovative new varieties into the marketplace to the detriment of farmers.
Canada accepts high-quality, distinct, uniform, and stable results in tests and trials. As well, we sell our own tests and trials to other UPOV member countries. Imposing regulations in that particular environment would significantly delay the ability to consider those tests and trials internationally, and can result in fewer varieties and less choice for farmers.