Ontario's pitch to expand northern farming sparks questions from farmers, food security experts

Ontario is pitching its plan to expand agriculture in the north and restrict foreign ownership of farmland as a way to strengthen food security and protect farmers.

But some farmers, researchers and environmental advocates say the proposed legislation leaves unanswered questions about land ownership, affordability and whether more production would improve food access in the north.

The province introduced the Protecting Ontario’s Food Independence Act, 2026 on April 22. The bill would limit foreign ownership of farmland and “unlock” agricultural potential in the Clay Belt — a region of fertile soil in northeastern Ontario and northwestern Quebec covering 180,000 square kilometres.

In a statement to CBC News, the Ministry of Northern Economic Development and Growth said expanding agricultural access in the Clay Belt would help farmers grow their businesses, create jobs, increase local production and strengthen domestic supply chains.

Province says Clay Belt offers growth opportunity

The ministry said the expansion would support “local, proponent-driven development” and encourage long-term investment in northern communities.

Russel Hurst, executive director of the Ontario Agri Business Association, said the Clay Belt has already shown growth through new acres and better yields on existing farmland.