Alpacas came to Canada in 1991 and have been a growing industry since then. Our young industry has travelled on some rocky roads in the early years of developing breed standards, Registry rules, and Fibre Processing Best Practices. We are fortunate that the industry has been lead by hard working, dedicated, alpaca loving individuals that have persevered through the early growing pains to develop and now manage a world class Registry under the mandate of the Canadian Llama and Alpaca Association, second to none Alpaca Canada Show System, and a proudly “Made in Canada” Fibre Industry.
The Canadian Llama and Alpaca Association was formed in 1987 and incorporated under the Animal Pedigree Act of Canada in 1989. The primary role was and still is to develop, identify and register new world camelids in Canada. The llama industry began first. Alpacas were being purchased from Chili, South America in the late 80’s but were held in quarantine and not allowed into Canada until 1990. Sixteen alpacas were registered that year, with a few larger imports arriving in 1991. By 2015 there were 30,554 alpacas registered in Canada.
There are three categories of registration for Llamas and Alpacas today. Foundation stock, Purebreds, and Percentage Purebred. To learn more visit the CLAA.
Alpaca Canada represents the interests and evolving needs of Alpaca Canada members and promotes the development of a viable, sustainable and integrated Canadian alpaca industry.
An Alpaca specific Division of the CLAA (Canada Llama & Alpaca Association) , “Alpaca Canada” will provide a strong nucleus from which all alpaca related industries can spring forth and flourish. Determined to represent the needs of all; members can expect support through promotion, educational opportunities and research. To Learn more visit the Alpaca Canada site