April 5, 2022

Canada to support domestic poultry producers with US$2.8 million

Canada announced C$3.5 million (US$2.8 million) in funding to support the country's turkey and chicken producers.

Turkey Farmers of Canada will receive up to C$2.5 million (US$2 million) to expand Canadian consumer awareness of the benefits of turkey meat as a primary and alternative protein. Chicken Farmers of Canada will receive up to C$1 million (US$800,803) to promote the excellence of Canadian chicken and the commitment of the farmers who raise them to providing safe, high-quality chicken. The investment will come from the Market Development Program.

Darren Ference, chair of Turkey Farmers of Canada, said: "The programme will go a long way to support the turkey sector's work in reaching consumers, and in promoting the wholesome and high-quality turkey raised by Canadian farmers."

"The Market Development Program for Turkey and Chicken will greatly assist in our sector's continued promotion of the safe, high-quality chicken that farmers raise with care for Canadians," said Tim Klompmaker, chair of Chicken Farmers of Canada. "This programme will enhance consumer engagement and continue to showcase Canadian-made products to Canadians."

The government said that, over a 10-year period, the Market Development Program for Turkey and Chicken will provide a total of C$19.2 million (US$15.4 million) for the Turkey Farmers of Canada and C$25 million (US$20 million) for the Chicken Farmers of Canada, totaling more than $44 million in support to improve the sectors' market position.

"Following the signing of international agreements, our government committed to providing full and fair compensation to Canada's supply-managed sectors, and we are delivering on that commitment," said Marie-Claude Bibeau, Canada's Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. "These investments enable poultry producers to promote the high quality of their products across Canada and to expand their markets."

- Meat + Poultry