Agri-business Priorities in Atlantic Canada
For more details
Agri-business Priorities in Atlantic Canada
Full Report
June 2009
Erin McGrath-Gaudet, Policy Analyst
Introduction
Agri-businesses are an important part of many Atlantic Canadian communities and make signficiant contributions to our local economies. According to results from an August 2007 public opinion poll commissioned by Hewlett-Packard (Canada) Co., show clearly that Canadians overwhelmingly indicated strong respect for the work and contributions of farmers.
The economic contributions of agricultural producers extend far beyond the farm gate. These businesses purchase a wide variety of inputs ranging from animal feed and fertilizer to farm equipment and product packaging. They also support a number of other related industries such as local grocery stores, transportation companies and veterinarians.
Given the importance of agri-businesses to local communities, it is vital that government policies and programs reflect the needs and realities of Atlantic Canada’s agri-businesses.
Government action should include ensuring competitive regulatory and taxation systems, having responsive business risk management programs, assisting with succession planning, and helping agri-business owners maximize
opportunities for the future.
