The Canadian government has announced an investment of more than CAD 691 million ($550 million approx.) over the next ten years to support the country’s poultry farmers. As part of the investment, the government has unveiledtwo new programs designed to help drive innovation and market development for Canada’s 4,800 chicken, turkey and egg farmers.
The Poultry and Egg On-Farm Investment Program will provide nearly CAD 630 million ($502 million approx.) to support poultry and egg farmers through on-farm investments. The purpose is to help farmers increase their competitiveness and become more sustainable and efficient by facilitating on-farm modernisation and helping them meet changing requirements for production practices.
This includes new barn construction or upgrading equipment such as feeding, watering, lighting, and heating systems to promote energy efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint.
The Canadian government says it will contribute up to 70% of the project cost and up to 85% for young farmers to ensure a strong future for Canada’s agriculture sector.
Meanwhile, the Market Development Program for Turkey and Chicken will fund CAD 61.5 million ($48.9 million approx.) towards promotional activities that differentiate Canada’s high-quality and sustainably farmed food from competing imports.
The capital will go towards turkey and chicken farmers’ advertising, market research, product development, and branding.
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“These programs will help us grow our customer base and the domestic turkey market and through on-farm investment enhance long-term competitiveness in preparation for increased imports under the CPTPP,” said Darren Ference, chair of Turkey Farmers of Canada, which will receive approximately $29 million.
Roger Pelissero, chair of Egg Farmers of Canada, added: “Today’s announcement offers new opportunities for our farmers to reinvest in their operations and plan for the future as they navigate the long-term market losses under the CPTPP agreement.”
The news comes on the heels of Canada .’s new Agricultural Climate Solutions (ACS) program, which will see approximately $148 million go towards implementing farming practices to tackle climate change.
