As part of the government’s fiscal 2017 budget, agriculture was identified as a key growth industry and investments are aimed at helping the industry enhance its competitive strengths. In the case of livestock genetics, exports generated more than C$150 million in 2016. The CLGA’s goal is to increase those exports to more than $200 million through trade missions, training and promotions.
“The investment made by the government of Canada and CLGA members to develop livestock markets throughout the world continues to yield benefits to all of Canada’s agriculture exporters,” said CLGA Director Michael Hall in a statement. “Canada’s world class genetics combined with the training and knowledge transfer made possible by Canada’s AgriMarketing funding is instrumental in improving farming practices around the world.”
Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay will lead a trade mission to China which has expressed interest in using Canadian livestock genetics to increase China’s agricultural production.
“Farmers around the world want Canadian breeds of livestock, because they are recognized worldwide for their high quality,” MacAulay said in a statement. “This investment will help Canadian livestock genetics exporters access new and emerging markets, like China, leading to greater returns for our farmers and their families and continued growth for the economy.”
The investment is being made under the Growing Forward 2, Agrimarketing Program, which is a five-year C$341 million initiative.
1 Canadian dollar = 0.78 US dollar