This past year was a landmark year as the Ontario government continues to work with the agri-food industry and rural communities to build a stronger foundation for future prosperity.

We recognize the importance of a sector that generates revenue of $30 billion a year, employs more than 700,000 people, ships more than $8 billion in exports annually, and accounts for more than 40 per cent of Canada’s food and beverage capacity.

Our government has consistently been there to help during the difficult times, and is moving in new directions that are good for the environment, good for the economy and good for the health of all our citizens.

As part of the Ontario Budget for 2007, the OMAFRA base budget is larger than under any previous government. In addition, and as the need arises, the government has responded with additional financial supports. (i.e.: special grain and oilseed funding)

This year to show our support for proper marketing and branding of Ontario agricultural products, OMAFRA is investing $10 million dollars.  There will also be an additional $2.5 million allocated to several agri-food organizations which fund marketing of farm products. $200,000 will also be invested with the Organic Council of Ontario to promote their industry development.

In addition, Ontario will also spend $10 Million to broadband to help with rural IT business development and $6 million for biofuels to Biocar/Bio Auto Council

The government supports a vision for an agri-food sector that is innovative, sustainable, globally competitive, and responsive to consumer needs and contributes to Ontario’s economic, environmental and social health. This vision was endorsed by the government and industry at the Premier’s Summit on Agri-Food

We look forward to working with all stakeholder groups and of course our federal government partners to make even more progress...