Feds Boost Canadian Seed Industry With $100,000 Investment to Promote Trade

By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com

Federal agriculture minister Gerry Ritz announced Wednesday, a $100,000 investment for the Canadian Seed Trade Association (CSTA), to encourage trade.

It’s a timely announcement because the Harper government recently made a trade deal with the European Union, the biggest trade agreement in history.

“Canada's seed and grain industry plays an important role in creating jobs, increasing trade and keeping our economy strong,” Minister Ritz said in a release.

The funding will enable CSTA to focus on issues relating to the trade of seed and the regulatory process. The money is aimed at increasing the export sale market for Canadian growers.  

Currently, Canada is the fifth largest exporter of seed in the world. The government sees opportunity to expand trade and address trade barriers affecting the seed industry.

The CSTA’s mission is to advance trade and innovation. Its members are diverse, which range from market garden seed/herbs to large grain handlers.