Federal government invests $2.7M in agri-food exports

OTTAWA — On June 10, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Marie-Claude Bibeau, speaking by video to the annual meeting of Group Export Agri-Food Québec-Canada, announced an investment of up to $2,731,384 over two years for the organization to help Canadian exporters increase the value of agriculture and agri-food exports.

With funding under the AgriMarketing Program, the organization will undertake market development activities to meet the needs of Canadian food exporters, from those just starting out to more experienced exporters who want to consolidate their markets or discover potential markets that will increase the value of agri-food exports internationally.

Group Export Agri-Food Québec-Canada will use trade shows, exploratory missions and business meetings to help exporters establish contacts with potential buyers and build business partnerships and sales. With a total of 14 free trade agreements with 51 countries, Canada has a growing global trade network that gives Canadian agri-food businesses preferred access in order to seize opportunities on a global market scale.

Canada’s agriculture and agri-food exports have continued to increase despite sector challenges, reaching over $82 billion in 2021 and surpassing a previous target to grow agri-food exports to at least $75 billion by 2025. The success of Canadian agriculture depends heavily on our ability to export to the world, which is why gaining access to global markets and expanding trading relationships with some of the world’s largest economies remains a top priority for the government.

“Small and medium-sized enterprises in the food processing sector are an essential part of the vitality and economy of rural communities. With this investment, Group Export Agri-Food Québec-Canada will help our entrepreneurs increase awareness of their products around the world and build sustainable growth for our exports through more diversified markets.” said Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

“Such investments make it possible to set up several activities, including some thirty outside Canada each year. This show of confidence from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada allows us to support hundreds of exporters in achieving their export goals, contributing significantly to the country’s economy.” said Martin Lavoie, CEO, Group Export Agri-Food Québec-Canada.