Last Friday Prime Minister Carney announced new investments to the agri-food sector through the National Food Security Strategy. Across the value chain, the strategy aims to lower costs for consumers, increase competition in the grocery sector, and increase domestic food processing. Many of the proposals are aimed specifically at farmers. They aim to keep farmers competitive, expand production (especially of fruits and vegetables), and increase marketing opportunities for Canadian producers.
“Farmers are at the heart of our food system. The success of the strategy will depend on meaningful collaboration with the agriculture sector to allow farmers to deliver real results” says Drew Spoelstra, President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.
The strategy proposes to speed regulatory approvals to give faster access to new tools, technology and innovation and to ensure farmers remain globally competitive. Investments are also aimed at expanding controlled environment agriculture of fruits and vegetables, as well as lowering labour and energy costs within this type of production. With increased Canadian processing capacity, and expanded food terminals and food hubs, producers will have more opportunities to market their products.
“OFA supports increased efforts to ensure Ontario farmers remain competitive globally and continue to play a key role in the overall food security of our nation. A $3 billion investment in a National Food Security Strategy is significant and demonstrates a clear understanding that food security starts with a strong, resilient domestic agriculture and food sector. We look forward to working with government to ensure the successful implementation of the strategy to support the needs of Ontario farmers and benefit Canadians” says Spoelstra.
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