March 25, 2013, Toronto — Growers are working to grow into new plant markets abroad with the support of the federal government.
March 25, 2013, Toronto — Growers are working to grow into new plant markets abroad with the support of the federal government.
“Our strategic investments in market development will help ensure that Canadian growers stay competitive in the global marketplace,” said MP Ted Opitz, speaking on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.
The announcement was made during this year’s Canada Blooms show.
This investment of $53,000 will help the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association further explore potential growth markets, such as Germany, Russia and China. It will also be used to build on the work done at previous international shows, increasing the recognition and reputation of the Canadian horticulture sector.
“We know there is strong demand in emerging and growing markets for the attributes for which Canadian-grown nursery product is already well-recognized – namely quality, environmental friendliness, and, above all, winter hardiness,” said Rita Weerdenburg, growers manager of the Canadian Nursery Landscape Association.
“This investment by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada allows us to further explore the potential of those valuable markets, thus strengthening the viability of this important sector of agriculture across Canada.”
Horticulture accounts for 15 per cent of Canada’s total farm cash receipts, which translates to more than $6 billion per year.
The ornamental horticulture sector makes up approximately 30 per cent of that industry, which employs around 110,000 people.
Through the AgriMarketing Program under Growing Forward, the federal government is investing $88 million to help industry implement long-term international strategies, including international market development, industry-to-industry trade advocacy, and consumer awareness and branding activities.
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