The federal government is investing up to $3.8 million in Canada Pork to help expand export opportunities and promote Canadian pork in international markets.
Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald announced the funding Thursday in Toronto. The money will flow through the AgriMarketing Program under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
Canada Pork will use the funding to promote Canadian pork in new and emerging markets across Asia, Europe and the Americas, said a government release. Activities will include major trade shows, trade missions and business meetings designed to connect Canadian exporters with international buyers and support export growth.
The funding will also promote the Verified Canadian Pork brand, highlighting Canadian standards for food safety, quality, animal care and traceability.
“Canadian pork is recognized around the world for its high standards of quality, safety and production,” MacDonald said. “This investment will support the sector’s ability to strengthen its position in international markets.”
Approximately 65% of Canadian pork production is exported to about 76 countries each year. Canadian exports of pork and pork products were valued at $5.7 billion in 2025.
The U.S., Japan, Mexico, China and South Korea were Canada’s five largest pork markets last year, accounting for more than 83% of export volume.
Canada Pork Chair Hans Kristensen said diversification remains central to the organization’s mandate and the funding will help build and maintain international markets while reaching new customers.
The AgriMarketing Program is part of the $3.5-billion Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, which runs from 2023 through 2028.
