As global markets grow more volatile and trade barriers become increasingly unpredictable, Canada is moving decisively to safeguard one of its most vital economic engines: its agriculture, fish, and seafood sectors.

On February 10 in Ottawa, at Food and Beverage Canada’s annual Policy Breakfast, the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced a significant expansion of federal support designed to help Canadian exporters adapt and compete in a shifting global environment. The Government of Canada is investing $75 million over five years (2026–27 to 2030–31) to launch two new streams under the AgriMarketing Program, both focused squarely on market diversification.

A Strategic Pivot Toward Diversification

Canada’s agricultural exporters have long been recognized for their reliability and quality. But with rising geopolitical tensions, evolving trade relationships, and increasing non-tariff barriers, stability can no longer be taken for granted.

The newly introduced Market Diversification for National Industry Associations and Market Diversification for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) streams are intended to strengthen the sector’s resilience by helping organizations and businesses expand into new and emerging markets.

The funding will support the broader Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector—including fish and seafood—by encouraging greater diversification at a time of global market instability. By reducing reliance on any single destination or trading partner, the program aims to mitigate risk and open new pathways for growth.

Beginning February 13, 2026, eligible organizations can apply for funding under both new streams. Full eligibility criteria and application guidelines are available on the program website.

Targeted Support Where It’s Needed Most

The new Market Diversification funding is separate from the previously announced $129.97 million in AgriMarketing Program funding under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. Instead, this new envelope builds on the existing program’s strengths while enhancing its reach.

Notably, it introduces dedicated support for small and medium-sized enterprises—businesses that were not eligible under the core AgriMarketing Program. This marks a significant shift, broadening access to federal trade support tools and recognizing the crucial role SMEs play in Canada’s export ecosystem.

The investment will benefit all sectors but will place particular focus on those most affected by trade barriers. By reinforcing promotional activities, market intelligence, and export readiness initiatives, the program is designed to give farmers, processors, and exporters practical tools to compete internationally.

As Minister MacDonald emphasized:

“The AgriMarketing Program Market Diversification streams encourage Canada’s agriculture, agri-food, fish, and seafood sectors to seize more global opportunities. By helping industry organizations and exporters expand into emerging markets, we’re promoting Canadian products, deepening partnerships, and fostering growth, resiliency, and competitiveness.”

Reinforcing Canada’s Global Footprint

The announcement reflects a broader commitment by the Government of Canada to build a diversified and resilient agricultural sector—one capable of navigating uncertainty while continuing to drive economic growth.

Agriculture, fish, and seafood exports remain central to Canada’s prosperity, supporting jobs in rural and coastal communities and sustaining supply chains that extend from primary producers to global consumers. By strengthening diversification efforts, Ottawa is signaling that it intends to ensure Canadian products remain competitive and visible in markets around the world.

In an era where trade stability cannot be assumed, strategic diversification may prove to be one of Canada’s most important export tools.