Prince Edward Island’s primary industries of agriculture and fisheries are optimistic about the future of the province’s food sector, says Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Alan McIsaac.
“Since becoming minister of agriculture and fisheries, I’ve been able to meet with many of our Island fishers, farmers and industry representatives who have expressed optimism and confidence about government’s emphasis on growing our primary resources and Island food sector” said Minister McIsaac. “Fishing and farming industries have made significant contributions to our province and they continue to grow, develop and diversify.”
Prince Edward Island’s agriculture industry generates a half a billion dollars in cash receipts for the province and employs approximately 3,500 people. The Island’s fishing and aquaculture industries have an approximate value of $250 million to the provincial economy and employ more than 8,600 people. More than 10 per cent of Prince Edward Island’s GDP comes from processing and primary agriculture. Last year, food products accounted for more than 50 per cent of the Island’s record billion dollars worth of exports to international markets.
The Province of Prince Edward Island is working with industry partners to establish and brand Prince Edward Island as Canada’s Food Island. This will build on the successes the province has achieved to establish Prince Edward Island as home to internationally recognized premium food products and a destination for culinary excellence.
Earlier this summer, the provincial government announced the creation of the Food Island Partnership, a new industry-led organization that will engage primary industries, food producers, culinary experts and research institutions to expand food exports, create new products and cement Prince Edward Island’s reputation as a world class producer of food and a leading culinary destination.
The first event planned by the Food Island Partnership was Food Island Day, a one-day symposium that brought together growers, processors, exporters and industry partners to learn more about emerging food trends, best practices and networking with others in the industry. The event was attended by more than 150 participants.
“Prince Edward Island’s culture and economy are tied to the land and sea through our farming and fishing communities. Placing greater focus on these traditional sectors will maintain and create jobs for Islanders in communities across the province and help grow our provincial economy,” said Minister McIsaac. “The provincial government will continue to support our primary industries as we work together to create an environment for expansion, innovation, market development and increased profits for the Island food industry as a whole.”