The role of the agrifood sector in restarting and recovering Canada’s economy

Much has been said lately (including by myself) about the potential for agriculture to be the driver of Canada’s economy post COVID-19. And there is a good reason why – we know that global food systems are being redesigned as the world recovers from the current pandemic. And when we add in population growth, mass urbanization, climate change, human health, income inequality and more, it becomes obvious that developing a sustainable and secure food supply-chain is key to helping to address some of the world’s greatest challenges.

I think most of us would agree that Canada can be global leaders and provide solutions to many of these challenges. In fact, it may also be our opportunity to strengthen our agriculture sector by further diversifying from a supplier of commodities to advancing our ingredient processing and food manufacturing capabilities.

Ingredient processing and food manufacturing holds tremendous opportunity for the country and can be key to future prosperity for Canada as part of our economic recovery from COVID-19. By processing even an additional 20 per cent of Canadian crops such as pulses, canola and wheat here in Canada, we will add an additional $12 billion to our national economy every year.

Not only do we have a chance to help Canada’s economy – we also can drive development that is economically sustainable, addresses environmental issues and contributes to the betterment of societies. To do this will require investment and innovation.

At Protein Industries Canada, we are working to do just that. We are bringing together Canada’s agrifood value chain to collaborate, innovate and help re-design foods systems to help address the world’s greatest challenges.

Protein Industries Canada is committed to building a competitive business environment for Canadian companies to help tackle some of the most pressing issues facing Canada and the world – access to healthy and safe food through a secure food-supply chain.