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 May 2026
Summary: Membership Update The Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) welcomed eleven new members in May 2026. Additionally, some existing members have changed their membership status. Scroll below for more information. DRC Membership Change in Status As of May 31st, 2026, the following organizations no longer hold a DRC membership: A.H. GARDEN PRODUCE INC., …
The Value of DRC Solutions Articles: Practical Knowledge for Confident Trade
In today’s fast-moving fresh produce industry, access to clear, reliable information is essential. One of the ways the Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) supports industry members is through Solutions, a newsletter that educates, informs, and promotes best practices across the supply chain. For exporters, importers, growers, packers, shippers, wholesalers, retailers, carriers and transportation …
Implications of Dealing with the Wrong Legal Entity
A recent arbitration case highlighted an important but often overlooked issue: ensuring that the legal entity named in a contract is the same legal entity that holds a membership with the Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC). In this case, both the claimant and the respondent were DRC members. However, the written contract identified …
When Timing is Everything: Arbitration Lessons on DRC Claim Filing and Product Inspections
Dispute over the limitation of the claims period and the timely inspection request. The Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation (DRC) has developed a series of articles summarizing past arbitration decisions. These articles will help members understand how the DRC Dispute Rules and Standards (R&S) apply in a dispute. The DRC Dispute R&S states that …
