October 1, 2007

Canada invests US$1.1 million to improve seafood marketing

Canada's aquaculture sector has just received a US$1.1 million boost to burnish its image abroad.

The funds, from the Ministry of Agriculture, has been awarded to the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA) to implement its long-term international marketing strategy.

The money was provided under the Canadian Agriculture and Food International (CAFI) Programme - a matching funding strategy to support industry activities that enhance and promote Canada's reputation in supplying safe, high-quality food products.

The funds would help expand existing markets for farmed fish and seafood and develop new international opportunities, said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.

The CAIA is rolling out a public relations strategy targeted at seafood buyers and consumers that would seek to improve confidence in the quality and safety of Canadian aquaculture products.

CAIA Executive Director Ruth Salmon said demand for the country's aquaculture products and the opportunity to explore new market opportunities would help the industry grow.