Investment and trade are fundamental elements of the Canadian economy, and the Government of Canada is making sure that Canadian exporters have new opportunities and unprecedented market access. That is why Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and the Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of National Revenue and Minister of State (Agriculture), today announced $944,000 in funding for Agri-Food Export Group Quebec-Canada to implement its International Market Development Strategy.
The funding is provided through the Canadian Agriculture and Food International (CAFI) program and will support Canadian food processors in their efforts to participate in international fairs and host the Salon international de l’alimentation (SIAL) de Montréal and the Canadian Agri-Food Export Gala.
“This Government is working hard to open up markets around the world so that Canadian farmers can sell more products to more customers,” said Minister Ritz. “This investment in industry is another way to help agriculture exporters expand opportunities across international borders.”
“SIAL Montréal is an excellent forum for showing buyers from around the world the exceptional and innovative quality of Canadian agri-food products,” added Minister Blackburn. “SIAL Montréal has a major economic impact: the 2007 edition alone generated over $23 million in sales.”
The 5th edition of SIAL Montréal will take place at the Palais des congrès de Montréal from April 1 to 3, 2009, with the anticipated participation of 700 exhibitors and 13,000 industry professionals from 50 countries. Since 2003, the prestigious annual agri-food trade shows held in Montréal have included those of ComExposium, the French company that founded the SIAL Paris, SIAL Mercosur and SIAL China trade shows.
