The Canadian Grapevine Certification Network (CGCN) will receive investment of CAD 12.1 million ($9.2 million) to fund research and developments in its production sector.
Federal minister of agriculture and agri-food Lawrence MacAulay announced the investment under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s AgriScience Clusters programme.
Up to CAD 3.7 million ($2.8 million) of this funding will come from industry contributions in order to help growers better protect their crops, test new vine varieties, and analyse environmentally friendly growing practices in Canadian vineyards.
The funding will also increase international activities for the industry, such as participation in trade shows, missions and promotions in traditional markets such as the US, the UK, and China, as well as CVA’s participation at international trade advocacy events.
MacAulay will meet with farmers, processors and industry leaders, as well as participate in rural agricultural events, to highlight strategic federal agricultural investments and programs and showcase how they will help to strengthen Canada’s wine sector and enhance its innovative practices.
MacAulay said: “This announcement will help increase the market share of Canadian wines by supporting research that improves wine quality and vineyard management practices, address challenges faced by the sector, and build upon Canada’s international reputation as a top cool-climate wine producer.”
MacAulay also announced an additional investment of CAD 1.5 million ($1.14 million) over three years to the Canadian Vintner’s Association (CVA).
He said: “I’m thrilled to be launching Canada’s first-ever grape and wine cluster. Our domestic grape and wine sector has had a positive impact on Canada’s economy, and it continues to grow.”
Dan Paszkowski, president and chief executive officer of CVA, said: “On behalf of the Canadian Wine Industry this contribution of $1.5 million over three years from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) is significant in helping to build the Canadian brand for our exceptional Canadian wines. From British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, to Nova Scotia, Canadian vintners are growing and making wines that are competing and winning in international markets.”
Canada’s wine industry has generated revenues of CAD 1.2 billion ($912.6 million) and employed over 5,600 people. Exports of wine in 2016 equalled CAD 133.6 million ($101.6 million).
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