OFA has provided comments to the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and Minister of National Revenue. OFA has recommended the following investments to support Canada’s agriculture sector:
- Permanently increase the interest-free portion of the Advanced Payment Program to $350,000.
- Develop a Critical Food and Farm Input Strategy.
- Commit $2 billion annually for five years to support farmers in their adoption of Best Management Practices (BMPs)
- Expand veterinary college capacity and improve access for foreign-trained veterinarians.
- Implement tax measures to incentivize farm business investment.
- Enhance high-speed broadband, cellular coverage, and 5G for rural communities.
OFA believes the proposed investments will ensure the agri-food sector continues to thrive. These measures will provide stability for farmers facing mounting uncertainties while unleashing the sector’s immense economic potential.