Canada to improve exports by supporting food producers

The Canadian Government has agreed to help food producers and processors based in British Columbia (BC) find new customers internationally.

Under the BC Government’s C$5m ($3.8m) Agrifood and Seafood Export Program, farmers, seafood processors, cooperatives and associations will be able to identify and develop market opportunities to increase their sales outside of BC.

The five-year programme is designed to support the development of marketing skills and increase participation in export-focused market development activities, which includes reaching new customers through international trade shows.

Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay said: “Canada’s farmers and processors have incredible potential to create good jobs and grow Canada’s economy.

“The Agrifood and Seafood Export Program will help deliver more of their world-class products to consumers in Canada and abroad, as well as contribute to our government’s goal of reaching C$75bn ($57.9bn) in exports by 2025.”

The programme is expected to support BC businesses at each stage of export development, including helping companies gain the required knowledge, skills and plans to prepare for domestic and international target markets.

Last year, BC exported agri-food and seafood products worth more than C$3.9bn ($3.01bn) to 157 markets worldwide. This is the highest number seen in the province.

BC Minister of Agriculture Lana Popham said: “By supporting BC farmers and producers who are interested in expanding into other Canadian or global markets through the BC Agrifood and Seafood Export Program, we’re increasing demand for the amazing products we harvest, raise and produce in BC, creating good jobs and prosperity for British Columbians.”