CPMA Welcomes $1 Billion Canadian Food Infrastructure Fund

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association is welcoming a new $1 billion federal investment in food terminals and regional food hubs, saying the infrastructure could improve the movement of fresh fruits and vegetables throughout Canada.

The Canadian government announced the upcoming Food-Link Fund Oct. 5 as part of its broader National Food Security Strategy.

The program will operate through two streams. The Food Terminal Fund will support development and expansion of wholesale food terminals, while the Food Hub Program will help create and expand regional food hubs across Canada.

“The Food-Link Fund is an important step toward building a stronger and more resilient fresh produce supply chain,” said CPMA President Ron Lemaire. “Strategic investments in food terminals and regional food hubs will create new opportunities for businesses across the supply chain and support more efficient access to fresh fruits and vegetables for Canadians.”

The federal government has allocated $568 million specifically to the Food Terminal Fund. Regional food-hub investments can include infrastructure and equipment for cold storage, transportation, processing, packaging and other distribution needs.

Applications for the Food-Link Fund are scheduled to open Oct. 14 and remain open through Dec. 11.

CPMA has advocated during the past year for federal investment in the Ontario Food Terminal and regional food hubs, arguing that stronger infrastructure is needed to move perishable products efficiently between growers, distributors, independent retailers and consumers.

“CPMA has consistently advocated for investment in the food system infrastructure needed to move fresh produce efficiently across Canada,” Lemaire said.

The $1 billion Food-Link Fund is part of Canada’s $3.2 billion National Food Security Strategy, which is aimed at improving food affordability, strengthening domestic supply chains and increasing competition.