Canada's New Government Invests $1.1 Million in Canadian Aquaculture

The Honourable Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Minister for the Canadian Wheat Board, announced almost $1.1 million to help the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA) implement its long-term international marketing strategy.

"This funding will help expand existing markets for farmed fish and seafood and develop new international opportunities," said Minister Ritz. "Canada's New Government is committed to aquaculture innovation, and increasing international trade of Canadian aquaculture products."

In addition to developing existing and new international markets for Canadian aquaculture products, the CAIA is developing a focused and coordinated public relations strategy with seafood buyers and consumers. Improving confidence in the high quality and safety of Canadian aquaculture products is important to the future of the industry.

"Canada's aquaculture industry is well positioned to maintain and enhance its market share in priority markets around the world," said CAIA Executive Director Ruth Salmon. "Increasing demand for our products and the opportunity to explore new market opportunities will help our industry grow, while benefiting Canada's economy."

The CAIA is a national industry association that represents the interests of Canadian aquaculture operators, feed companies and suppliers, as well as provincial finfish and shellfish aquaculture associations to ensure the continuing international competitiveness of the Canadian aquaculture industry.

The $1,097,000 in funding announced today is provided under the Canadian Agriculture and Food International (CAFI) Program. CAFI provides matching funding for industry activities that enhance and promote Canada's reputation as the world leader in supplying safe, high-quality agriculture, agri-food, beverage and seafood products that meet the changing demands of world markets.