Support announced for Canada's supply-managed processing sectors
49 dairy, poultry and egg processor projects to receive funding
7 February 2024
2 minute read
By: Canada's minister of agriculture, Lawrence MacAulay, has announced an investment of up to $89 million for 49 projects across Canada under the Supply Management Processing Investment Fund, according to a government-issued press release.
The fund is a key part of Canada's commitment to supporting processors in supply-managed sectors in addressing the impacts of recent international trade agreements.
Through this funding, dairy, poultry and egg processors are able to purchase and install new automated equipment and technology, allowing them to boost their production capacity and productivity, while also helping them respond to environmental challenges and labour shortages. Project examples include milk pasteurisers, ultrafiltration systems, robotics for packaging systems, and new machines for grading, setting and breaking eggs.
The announcement was made in Ingleside, Ontario, at Lactalis Canada's cheese plant, which is set to receive up to $3,343,000 for new automated cheese processing and packaging equipment. These upgrades will help modernize the production facility, reduce waste and improve productivity.
The government of Canada will continue to preserve, protect and defend Canada's supply management system. This system ensures Canadian producers receive fair returns for their labour and investments, brings stability for processors, and provides consumers with a steady supply of high-quality products.
"I will always stand up for Canada's supply management system and the communities it supports," said MacAulay. "With this funding, dairy, poultry and egg processors will be able to modernise their operations so they can continue providing Canadian families with high-quality products while supporting small, rural communities across the country."
"The Supply Management Processing Investment Fund has shown its value in leveraging increased investments from dairy processors in process innovation and upgrading plants," added Mathieu Frigon, president and CEO, Dairy Processors Association of Canada. "We commend government officials for their flexibility and responsiveness to the evolving needs of the dairy processing community in the administration of this program."
"The Supply Management Processing Investment Fund has enabled numerous poultry and egg processors to make important new investments in their facilities," added Mark Hubert, president and CEO, Canadian Poultry and Egg Processors Council. "New investments in equipment and technology will facilitate companies' efforts to increase productivity and efficiency and enable Canadian poultry and egg processors to undertake valuable and leading-edge modernisation projects."
