Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay announcing a key investment for Canada's Beef Industry

Federal Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay was in Calgary today to announce more than $6 million for Canada Beef and the Canadian Cattle Association.

The funding through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership - AgriMarketing Program is geared towards increasing awareness and demand for Canadian beef in existing and new markets through advertising and promotional activities such as incoming and outgoing trade missions, technical training, and educational seminars.

In making the announcement, MacAulay noted that Canadian beef has earned a top spot on the world stage because of the commitment to quality and sustainability that our producers hold themselves to. 

"By continuing to promote Canadian beef in key foreign markets, we can make the sector more competitive, put more money in the pockets of producers, and drive demand for our world-class Canadian beef." 

The value of Canadian beef exports has seen a steady increase from $2.7 billion in 2018 to over $5 billion in 2023.

Canada Beef President Eric Bienvenue says Canadian beef is a world class product.

"This funding will support initiatives that increase awareness of the value proposition of Canadian beef and veal exports in international markets vital to the success of Canada's beef industry."

In 2023, the top importing countries for Canadian beef included the United States ($4B), Japan ($351M), Mexico ($284M), South Korea ($122M), and Vietnam ($79M).

Nathan Phinney, president of the Canadian Cattle Association says expanding and opening markets abroad for Canadian beef to meet global demand requires proactive efforts to build relationships.

"These local, national and international relationships open doors to trade and collaboration, and the AgriMarketing program support will help to ensure Canadian beef producers are represented at these global tables."