More Canadian livestock will be raised outside of Canada using prized Canadian genetics. Farmers around the world demand Canada's superior livestock breeds so they can raise cows and goats that produce more milk, and sheep, which produce more meat, for example. Budget 2017 identifies agriculture as a key growth industry, and targets investments that will help the sector build on its competitive strengths and chart Canada's path to prosperity.
A $3 million federal investment to the Canadian Livestock Genetics Association (CLGA) will help exporters develop and expand new markets for Canadian livestock genetics. Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lawrence MacAulay made the announcement today, along with the Member of Parliament for Markham-Thornhill Mary Ng at the 95th Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, where Canada's top livestock breeders compete.
The focus of the project will be on exports of dairy, sheep and goat genetics, which in 2016 generated exports of over $150 million dollars. The CLGA is looking to increase those exports to over $200 million through trade missions, training and promotion.
The Government of Canada is working hard to grow our markets internationally. Later this month, Minister MacAulay will be leading a trade mission to China, which is looking to our livestock genetics to increase their agricultural production.
Source : Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada