Ottawa, ON – The Canadian Meat Council (CMC) was pleased to learn of new funding announced in the 2018 federal budget aimed at improving Canada’s trade relationships and, improving CFIA’s food safety system over the next three years.
CMC President Chris White noted: “We are particularly encouraged to see the federal government’s plans to commit $75 Million over the next five years to increase the number of Diplomats and Trade Commissioners in China and Asia.” CMC has remained a strong advocate for increasing market access to China and Asia for Canada’s meat sector. “This increased attention to China will help clear the uncertainty our industry was left with regards to bone-in beef and fresh chilled beef and pork products late last year” White added.
The Council was also pleased to see new money announced for Canada’s Food Inspection Agency in the Government’s budget. The Government has committed $16 Million over the next three years to “strengthen food safety system including risk intelligence, oversight, offshore prevention activities.”
The Council congratulates Minister of Agriculture Lawrence MacAulay for his leadership on these files in conjunction with the Minister of International Trade, François-Philippe Champagne. CMC will be following developments regarding budget commitments closely and looks forward to working with Government stakeholders to support the sector.
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About the Canadian Meat Council: For nearly a century, the CMC has represented Canada’s federally registered meat packers, meat processors and equipment suppliers. The Council provides evidence-based advocacy on behalf of its members. CMC works to secure and improve Canada's global meat competitiveness and, promote a balanced diet, which includes high-quality and nutritious Canadian meat.
Source: Canadian Meat Council
