DRC Membership: Trade with confidence from anywhere in the world
The Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) is a not-for-profit, membership-based, international entity providing a broad range of private, commercial dispute resolution services to the fresh fruit and vegetable trade. In other words, the DRC serves as a referee between parties when the purchase and sale do not go according to plan.
Our members are recognized as preferred buyers and vendors, resulting in improved business networking! You’ll also receive:
- access to our expansive member directory and up to date information on current and potential trading partners.
- greater commercial assurance, thanks to our commitment to fair and ethical business practices.
- one-on-one professional and confidential consultation.
Visit our Membership page for additional benefits. All services are provided in English, French and Spanish.
Special Requirements for Canadians
A key requirement under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) is that Canadians who buy, sell, import, or export fresh fruits or vegetables (inter-provincially or internationally) must be members in good standing of the DRC, unless they qualify for specific exemptions. This replaces the previous option under the Canada Agricultural Products Act (CAP Act), which allowed businesses to choose between a Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Produce License or DRC membership.
Grade Requirements
The Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) is a not-for-profit, member-based, international entity providing a broad range of private, commercial dispute resolution services to the fresh fruit and vegetable trade.
In The News
New Report! 2026 Produce Fraud Forecast
Fraud in produce is about to get harder to detect. Here’s what’s coming. Blue Book has launched the 2026 Fraud Forecast to surface emerging fraud patterns, bad actors, and enforcement gaps impacting the produce supply chain.
Passing of Fred Webber
OTTAWA, November 26, 2025 – It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Fred Webber, retired President and CEO for the Fruit & Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC), passed away on November 24th, 2025. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy shaped by his dedication to fairness and ethical trading in the fresh produce …
Industry Coalition Releases a Comprehensive Guide to Fraud Prevention
October 21, 2025 – A coalition of produce industry leaders released “A Guide: Fraud Prevention in Produce.” This comprehensive resource is designed to help companies protect themselves against the rapidly escalating threat of fraud, which has cost the industry tens of millions of dollars annually. The guide was developed by experts representing the Fruit and …
Solutions
Membership Update for March 2026
Summary: Membership Update The Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) welcomed nineteen new members in March 2026. Additionally, some existing members have changed their membership status. Scroll below for more information. Welcome New Members 2478339 ONTARIO INC. ON Canada AKM IMPORT EXPORT / LE VILLAGE KAFE (Faisant également affaire sous 9231-8526 Quebec Inc.) QC …
Setting the Standard for Fair, Confident Produce Trade Worldwide
The fresh produce industry operates on a truly international scale, linking growers, shippers, buyers, and sellers across multiple regions. As supply chains stretch and trading relationships expand, the need for dependable, transparent business practices becomes even more critical. The Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) supports this evolving landscape by serving as a global …
Navigating Quality Inspections: Key Differences Between USDA and CFIA
Growers and shippers exporting to both the United States and Canada often use quality destination inspection services offered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The inspection reports from these agencies are considered prima facie evidence. This means their findings are accepted at face value when determining …
Don’t Let Your BoL Spoil Your Shipment
Why is the Bill of Lading (BoL) particularly important in the ground transportation of produce? The Bill of Lading (BoL) plays a crucial role in the transportation of commodities, but in the ground transportation of the fresh produce industry, it becomes more significant. Produce sellers and buyers with years of experience in produce transportation know …
