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Growing Forward 2 launches

Apr. 1, 2013, Ottawa, ON - April 1st marks the official launch of the Growing Forward 2 (GF2) policy framework for Canada's agricultural and agri-food sector. GF2 is a $3 billion dollar investment by federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) governments and the foundation for government agricultural programs and services over the next five years.
 
"Growing Forward 2 delivers what the sector needs to position Canadian farmers, producers and processors for growth and prosperity in the years ahead," said Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.
 
The agriculture and agri-food sector is an important contributor to Canada's economy. The Canadian agriculture and agri-food system accounts for 8 per cent of total GDP (or $101.1 billion) and employs 2.1 million people.
 
GF2 programs will focus on innovation, competitiveness and market development to ensure Canadian producers and processors have the tools and resources they need to continue to innovate and capitalize on emerging market opportunities. It also includes $2 billion cost-shared on a 60:40 basis for programs delivered by provinces and territories, and $1 billion for federally delivered strategic initiatives. Under GF2, FPT cost-shared investments will increase by 50 per cent and provincial and territorial governments will have greater flexibility to tailor programs to local needs.
 
In addition, GF2 includes an effective suite of Business Risk Management (BRM) programs to help farmers manage risk due to severe market volatility and disaster situations. Governments will also assist the industry in its efforts to research, develop and implement new agricultural risk management tools.
 
For more information on Growing Foward 2, please visit www.agr.gc.ca/growingforward2.

April 1, 2013  By Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada


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