Canadian government invests hundreds of thousands in pet food industry

The government of Canada is investing $175,000 (€127,500) in the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC Canada) to help develop global market opportunities for Canadian pet food products, announced Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.

"This investment will help Canada's pet food industry promote its top-quality products and pursue potential buyers and new customers," said Minister Ritz. "Our government's support for this organization will allow the industry to enhance its competitiveness in global markets."

The PIJAC Canada will use this investment to build relationships with new and existing customers, and increase the sales, exports and value of its products, which include a range of pet food for dogs, cats, birds and other domesticated animals. The Council will also attend US and other international trade shows, and participate in outgoing missions.

"On behalf of its member exporters, PIJAC Canada is very appreciative of the support received through the Agri-Marketing funding programme," said Louis McCann, Executive Director of PIJAC Canada. "For our members, this contribution has proven quite helpful in the realization of their export objectives."

This federal investment is provided through the $88 million (€64 million) AgriMarketing programme, under Growing Forward, which helps industry associations implement long-term international strategies which include activities such as international market development, consumer awareness and branding and industry-to-industry trade advocacy.

To find out more about this programme, visit: www.agr.gc.ca/agrimarketing.