Canada's $750M Food Strategy Aims to Boost Local Produce and Cut Grocery Costs

Prime Minister Mark Carney has launched Canada’s new National Food Strategy. The plan aims to increase domestic production of fruits and vegetables to replace some imports. It represents the largest investment in the fresh produce sector in recent history. The federal government will spend $750 million to expand year-round production. This includes scaling up greenhouses, vertical farms, and other enclosed growing spaces. Ontario already leads with nearly two-thirds of the country’s greenhouse area, followed by British Columbia and Quebec.

By 2025, Canada’s total greenhouse area grew to 35.9 million square metres. However, building enough greenhouses to replace all imported produce would be too costly. Growing food year-round in Canada’s cold climate also demands more energy and labour. The strategy seeks to cut grocery costs for Canadians and boost local food production. It focuses on practical expansion rather than full import replacement. The investment marks a significant step for the country’s agricultural sector.