On Friday, the federal government announced $3.5 million in funding under the Market Development Program for the Turkey Farmers of Canada and Chicken Farmers of Canada.
"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. These investments enable poultry producers to promote the high quality of their products across Canada and to expand their markets," said Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
Funding through this program will help increase domestic demand and consumption of Canadian turkey and chicken products through industry-led promotional activities that differentiate Canadian products and producers, and leverage Canada's reputation for high quality poultry products.
Turkey Farmers of Canada will receive up to $2.5 million to expand Canadian consumer awareness of the benefits of turkey meat as a primary and alternative protein.
"We are pleased with this announcement of the Market Development Program for Turkey and Chicken. The program 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," said Darren Ference, Chair, Turkey Farmers of Canada.
Chicken Farmers of Canada will receive up to $1 million to promote to Canadians the excellence of Canadian chicken and the commitment of the farmers who raise them to providing safe, high quality chicken.
"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. This program will enhance consumer engagement and continue to showcase Canadian-made products to Canadians," Tim Klompmaker, Chair, Chicken Farmers of Canada.
The Government of Canada says it is committed to providing full and fair compensation to supply-managed sectors for market access concessions made under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Over ten years, the Market Development Program for Turkey and Chicken will provide a total of $19.2 million for the Turkey Farmers of Canada and $25 million for the Chicken Farmers of Canada, totalling more than $44 million in support to improve the sectors' market position.
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