Government of Canada invests to grow exports for Canada’s red meat sector

Seizing opportunities to increase and diversify Canadian red meat exports is key to the economic growth and profitability of Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector

The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of up to $543,271 to support efforts by the Canadian Meat Council (CMC) to grow Canada’s red meat exports.

With funding under the AgriMarketing Program, the CMC will implement a global market strategy that aims to maintain existing markets and identify new opportunities to diversify trade.

“We are thankful that the government recognizes the importance of foreign markets for the meat industry as the demand keeps growing for our high-quality Canadian meat around the world“

“Canada’s red meat industry is a strong driver of our nation’s economy,” Bibeau stated. “This investment will help the industry diversity its exports and develop markets by building new trade relationships.”

In collaboration with the Canadian Pork Council (CPC) and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA), the CMC is undertaking activities such as trade advocacy missions, engaging with in-market intelligence specialists, and arranging inspection visits by international officials to demonstrate compliance with food safety standards for export. This work will help build and strengthen relationships with foreign industry partners and boost Canada’s reputation for high-quality and safe products.

“CMC along with Canadian Pork Council and Canadian Cattlemen’s Association are grateful for the support given to our industry through the AgriMarketing program,” added CMC president, Chris White. “This funding allows us to do valuable advocacy by reaching out to our counterparts and build allies to help influence decision-making in these markets.”

Canada’s red meat sector is an important part of the Canadian economy with exports worth more than $9.4 billion in 2021. Increasing exports benefits Canadian producers and processors by stimulating economic activity and helping to grow their sales in international markets. Strong demand for Canadian red meat products supports jobs across the entire supply chain and contributes to the overall success of Canada’s agriculture sector.

“We are thankful that the government recognizes the importance of foreign markets for the meat industry as the demand keeps growing for our high-quality Canadian meat around the world,” White said.

The Government of Canada is ensuring the red meat sector has the necessary resources to seize new export opportunities to remain competitive and continue to be a sustainable driver of economic growth.

“Our producers and processors are at the heart of the vitality of our rural communities, and we will continue to support them.”

The Canadian red meat sector represents the largest source of farm cash receipts totaling over $16 billion in 2021.