Federal Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay has officially opened Canada's Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office in the Philippines.
"I’m so pleased to be in Manila to open Canada’s first-ever Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office. We export nearly half of what we produce in Canada and the global demand continues to grow. I have no doubt this office will play a central role in growing export markets for our world-class Canadian farmers and increasing collaboration and cooperation in this important region.”
The office in Manilla will work to build strategic partnerships that will grow our export opportunities and increase the demand for Canadian products.
Today's announcement comes at the midway point in Minister MacAulay’s trade mission to two key Indo-Pacific markets: Malaysia and the Philippines.
Canadian stakeholders, government partners, and dignitaries were also on hand to officially open Canada’s Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO) and begin a new chapter for Canada’s engagement in the region.
In 2023, Canada's agriculture and agri-food exports to the Indo-Pacific region reached $22.8 billion
Industry officials in the Canadian agriculture sector see the potential for new and expanded opportunities in that area and are pleased to see the Indo-Pacific office open.
Industry Quotes:
"The Indo-Pacific provides a unique opportunity for growth and diversification for Canadian pulses. This office demonstrates the Government of Canada’s support for our sector proactively breaking down market access barriers and playing a direct role in expanding exports of high-quality, sustainable pulses across the region." - Kevin Auch, Chair, Pulse Canada
“Canada’s 43,000 canola farmers rely on trade, 90% of the canola grown in Canada is exported as seed, oil, and meal. The opening of the IPAAO sends a strong signal to our trading partners in the region that Canada is serious about market access, maintenance, and development. The IPAAO is a key part of our strategy to diversify our export markets and establish long-lasting relationships in the Indo-Pacific.” - Dave Carey, Vice-President, Government & Industry Relations, Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA)
“The Indo-Pacific region represents both key established markets as well as diversification opportunities for Canadian canola. Additional resources and an enhanced and sustained presence in the region are important to advancing both market access and market development efforts to support the growth and competitiveness of our industry and the broader sector.” - Chris Davison, Canola Council of Canada
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