Guelph, Ontario, Canada Syngenta Canada is disappointed in the lack of focus on agriculture in yesterday’s 2024 Federal Budget and will continue to press the government to ensure their investments and efforts support Canadian farmers.While the budget had some positive investments in the sector, such as carbon rebates for small businesses, previously announced funding for temporary improvements to the Advanced Payments Program, and an increase to the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption, the budget overall fell short of the mark when it comes to addressing the needs facing today’s farmers. “Canada’s agri-food sector is a key economic engine, accounting for 7.4% of GDP. We can’t continue to grow as an economic driver without more support. Current funding levels are not adequate and put Canadian growers at a disadvantage against their international competitors.” says Trevor Heck, President, Syngenta Canada. “Government investment is critical to allow for the agriculture and agri-food sector to maximize its potential to meet increasing global food demand and to be a leader in the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss.”Syngenta Canada submitted key funding recommendations to the Department of Finance during its annual pre-budget consultation in an effort to bolster Canadian agriculture’s competitiveness, drive solutions for climate change, and help protect our biodiversity. We continue to meet with decision-makers in government and elected officials to advocate for measures to address the many challenges facing the sector. Agriculture in Canada is at a pivotal moment, and the impact of government regulations and lack of strategic investment is impacting famer livelihood, food security, and competitiveness of our industry.We will continue to work with governments at all levels to ensure agriculture is given equal consideration to other industries given its impact on the economy, our health, and rural communities. For more information, please contact:Robyn McKeeGovernment and Industry Relations Manager 343-596-4002Robyn.McKee@Syngenta.com
