Red Deer, Alberta, November 7, 2013 – Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz delivered remarks at Agri-Trade 2013's first annual All Crops Breakfast and Market Outlook today to highlight current and upcoming opportunities for Canadian field crop producers. He was joined by representatives from the Alberta Canola Producers Commission, Alberta Wheat Commission, Alberta Barley and Alberta Pulse Growers, to discuss strategies to expand market access and increase exports.
"Our Government is proud to work with industry to support market growth and enhance competitiveness for Canadian grains, pulses and oilseeds," said Minister Ritz. "We continue to improve the performance of the supply chain for all crops, with a focus on innovation, capacity, and stakeholder collaboration."
Minister Ritz highlighted how the Canada-European Free Trade Agreement will create jobs, open new markets and unlock growth opportunities in Europe for Canadian producers across every region of the country. Once "CETA is finalized, grains such as wheat, barley and oats, and oilseeds such as canola, including canola oil, will gain duty free access to the EU's market of more than 500 million consumers.
In October at ANUGA, the largest food and beverage show in the world, the Canada Pavilion was home to 16 pulse, grain and oilseed companies who expect to generate more than $134 million in export sales out of their participation. Once exhibitor on-site sales and anticipated sales are realized, industry will generate $2,000 in export sales for every $1 invested by Agriculture Canada to mount a strong Canadian presence. Canadian participation at major international trade shows is a key component of market development under Growing Forward 2.
Entering the second year of marketing freedom, Canadian grain farmers have a bright future in an open market where they are able to respond to demands by being innovative with their farming and processing practices, and where they will be rewarded with premium returns. A recent Canadian Federation of Independent Business survey found that over 80 per cent of its members have seen a positive impact from being able to market their wheat and barley independent of the former single desk. The Government continues to pursue an ambitious pro-trade plan, with 70% of the wheat grown in Canada being shipped to export markets around the world.
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Media Relations
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
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Jeff English
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Gerry Ritz
613-773-1059
