OFA has provided comments to the Federal Government through the Budget 2025 consultation process. 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 that these investments would provide greater stability for farmers in these uncertain times, while also offering opportunities for growth in the Ontario’s agriculture sector and rural communities.