Description: It’s spring.  The sap is flowing. And the world’s largest maple syrup producer, the Province of Quebec, is facing increased competition from American competitors. Whereas Quebec once controlled 80% of the market through its tight supply management system, it is predicted that by 2018, that figure could drop to 63%.

Source: Globeandmail.com

Date:  April 6, 2015

Link: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/quebec-losing-hold-over-maple-syrup-industry-due-to-us-competition/article23815051/

Discussion Points:

1) Are you a maple syrup fan? How much of a premium would you pay for real maple syrup over a maple-flavoured substitute?

2) What may be some strategies Quebec producers could use to combat the decline in market share?

3) How would a farm’s maple trees be accounted for on a set of financial statements?