Agriculture ministers set priorities for Canada’s next policy framework

Halifax, N.S. (Rural Roots Canada) – Federal, provincial, and territorial agriculture ministers have endorsed a shared vision for Canada’s next agricultural policy framework, laying out priorities aimed at improving competitiveness, innovation and resilience as governments prepare to replace the current five-year funding agreement in 2028.

The ministers concluded their annual meeting Friday in Halifax by issuing the Halifax Statement, which will guide development of the Next Policy Framework for 2028-33.

The statement outlines a commitment to strengthen the agriculture and agri-food sector by supporting economic growth, boosting productivity, expanding market opportunities and helping producers adapt to growing economic and environmental challenges.

“Today, federal, provincial and territorial governments are advancing a clear path forward for Canada’s next policy framework, one that is grounded in collaboration, informed by producers and partners, and focused on results. Together, we are working to ensure that Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector remains a cornerstone of our economy and food security by helping farmers, producers and processors succeed in the face of any and all challenges,” federal Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald said in a release.

Ministers also discussed trade diversifications, regulatory modernizations and efforts to reduce interprovincial trade barriers, while reaffirming support for research, innovation and science-based decision-making.

Business Risk Management programs were another focus of the meeting, with ministers agreeing the programs must remain flexible and responsive as producers face increasing economic and production risks. They also agreed in principle to advance changes to AgriStability that would recognize non-arm’s-length labour and certain contract work as eligible expenses, while considering impacts on small farms.

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The ministers also reviewed progress on Canada’s recently launched National Food Security Strategy, which looks to increase domestic food processing capacity and improve the overall resilience of Canada’s food system.

As well, animal health, emergency preparedness and biosecurity were discussed, along with progress on a federal-provincial-territorial action plan on pesticide management.

MacDonald said governments had made progress on several priorities facing the sector.

“This week’s conference showed how strong federal–provincial–territorial collaboration is helping deepen those investments, strengthen risk‑management tools, and open new opportunities for growth right here, in Canada,” he said. “Through the National Food Security Strategy, we are also taking practical steps to support farmers and food businesses while maintaining Canada’s world‑class food safety system.”

No new funding announcements were made during the conference. Instead, ministers established the policy direction that will guide negotiations on the Next Policy Framework before it replaces the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership in 2028.

 

Photo credit: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada 

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