Ontario farmers looking for help amid record diesel costs

WALKERTON — Ontario farmers are grappling with soaring diesel costs, which have reached record levels this year. Rising fuel prices were triggered by the disruption of oil supplies following the Iran war, affecting markets globally. At the annual International Plowing Match and Rural Expo, currently taking place in Walkerton, Ontario, numerous farmers expressed their frustration, claiming that provincial and federal governments seem to have neglected their needs.

They are urging authorities to take action to alleviate the financial strain, as most farm equipment relies on diesel as its primary fuel source. According to Natural Resources Canada data, the average price of diesel nationwide surged to $2.75 per litre in mid-September, a significant increase from the previous record of $2.25 in 2022.

This price spike was primarily driven by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which caused a global supply crisis. In response, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced that the province's $150-million risk management program will be expanded to $250 million in the upcoming year, aiming to provide additional support to farmers. This report, originally published by The Canadian Press on September 22, 2026, also incorporated information from Liam Casey in Toronto.