“The Premier has issued a challenge to grow Ontario agricultural exports,” says Jim Clark, Executive Director, Ontario Cattle Feeders Association. “We’ve already seen incredible growth in our home province, and the partnerships we’ve made in Japan and beyond mean we are meeting this challenge while simultaneously increasing value for our domestic partners and our farmers.”
As of May 1st, 33 Kinsho Stores in Japan’s Osaka region launched Ontario Corn Fed Beef products.
Last year, Canada exported approximately $103 million in beef to Japan and is estimated the Ontario Corn Fed Beef brand in the Japanese markets could increase the number by $15 million annually. Not only that, it could also supply Ontario with an extra 1,500 jobs.
“In 2013, I challenged the agri-food sector to double its growth rate and create 120,000 new jobs by 2020, and the industry has met this challenge head-on,” says Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario. “Our government is committed to working with industry partners, like Ontario Corn Fed Beef, to make sure Ontario’s farms remain competitive in the global marketplace — while creating new opportunities here at home.”
Tell us your thoughts about Ontario Corn Fed Beef expanding their marketing reach into Japan. As a farmer are you encouraged by the news?