As we await Federal Budget 2024, Canada faces a pivotal moment that will determine the future of our food system. Our nation’s food and beverage manufacturers, almost 8,000, form the backbone of our economy, transforming raw farm products into the foods Canadians find on their tables. This sector, the second-largest manufacturing industry in Canada, is not only a cornerstone of our economy but a critical pillar of our national food sovereignty and security.
The challenges we face today are unprecedented. Labour shortages, supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, climate emergencies, and more have put immense pressure on our industry. These challenges are not just hurdles for businesses; they are threats to the very fabric of our food system, impacting everything from the farm to the consumer’s table.
As we navigate turbulent times, it’s clear that action is needed to support Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing sector. The development of a National Workforce Strategic Plan for Agriculture and Food & Beverage Manufacturing, an industry-led initiative to address our labour challenges, is a step in the right direction. Yet, for this plan to be fully realized, it requires the backing of our federal government through dedicated funding and support.
Labour remains one of our most pressing challenges. Without immediate action, we face a future where we cannot meet the food needs of Canadians. While the Temporary Foreign Worker Program remains incredibly important for our sector, we need permanent solutions that acknowledge the ongoing nature of our sector’s needs. We urge the government to make the recent cap increase permanent and to create pathways for permanent residency for these essential workers.
Moreover, the stability of our food system is inextricably linked to our supply chains and critical infrastructure. The establishment of a National Supply Chain Office is a welcome development, but it must be equipped with the resources, and authority, to address the multifaceted challenges we face. Form climate-related events to geopolitical tensions, the resilience of our supply chain is tested almost daily. A coordinated, comprehensive approach to supply chain resilience is essential.
On the front of innovation and sustainability, our sector is eager to lead. However, the path to innovation is fraught with barriers, from funding gaps to infrastructure challenges. We need targeted incentives that encourage investment in innovative practices, from automation to sustainable packaging. These are not just investments in companies; they are investments in the future of our food system and our planet.
The federal government’s role in shaping the future of Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing sector cannot be understated. As we approach Budget 2024, we call on policymakers to consider the critical importance of this sector. Investing in our food system is investing in the future of our country. It’s time to act decisively to support the food and beverage manufacturing sector, ensuring its resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability for generations to come. Let’s work together to secure the future of Canada’s food system, for it is in our collective interest to nurture the industry that feeds us all.
Kristina Farrell is the CEO of Food and Beverage Canada