EDC ramping up support for agri-food sector as exporters pursue new markets

Canadian agri-food companies target growth opportunities in the Indo-Pacific, Europe and Latin America 

OTTAWA, ON, Oct. 2, 2025 /CNW/ - Amid shifting global trade dynamics, Export Development Canada (EDC) is seeing a surge in Canadian agri-food companies exploring new markets to drive business growth, particularly in the sub-sectors of plant-based foods, food innovation and private label, where international demand is on the rise.  

"The world is increasingly turning to Canada for agri-food products that consistently stand out on shelves due to our strong reputation in sustainability, safety and high-quality ingredients", said Ashley Kanary, agri-food director at EDC. "While the U.S. remains a key trading partner, diversifying beyond traditional markets is essential for Canadian companies to grow and succeed globally over the longer term. Increasingly, Canadian companies are taking interest in exploring new trading relationships in the Indo-Pacific, Europe and Latin America." 

The growing middle class, rapid urbanization and shifting dietary trends in the Indo-Pacific and Latin America are creating new opportunities for Canadian exporters. In Europe, exporters can meet the strong demand for agricultural technologies, clean-label products and functional ingredients. "These evolving and untapped global food needs are creating a significant opportunity for Canada's agri-food sector to expand its reach and deliver trusted, high-value products to consumers in international markets," said Kanary. 

As the world's fifth-largest food exporter, Canadian food producers have unparallelled market access through 15 free trade agreements with 51 countries. While Canada is renowned for its primary agricultural production, value-added activities are increasingly shaping the sector's economic footprint. Processing, packaging and marketing of agricultural products not only enhance product value but also drive innovation and strengthen the overall competitiveness of the Canadian agri-food industry.

This momentum is reflected in the sector's economic performance. In 2024 alone, Canada's agri-food industry generated approximately $100 billion in exports. EDC has facilitated $21 billion in business and trade-related activities for the sector across our full suite of financial solutions including loans, investments, working capital and insurance.

"Canada's future trade success depends on our ability to lead in sectors that are globally relevant and aligned with our national strengths. Increasing global demand for Canadian food products is a testament to our agricultural leadership and an opportunity to grow beyond North America," said Guillermo Freire, senior vice-president, Mid-Market Group at EDC. "To fully capitalize on this demand, Canada must also invest in strategic infrastructure, such as transportation and food storage systems, which will help increase the flow of exports to markets further afield. EDC is eager to support the development of these domestic capabilities by leveraging our expertise and collaborating with government and industry partners, as we work to transition Canada from a continental to a true global trader."  

Aligned with the federal government's ambitious agri-food targets, EDC has made the sector a strategic priority, recognizing its critical role in advancing Canada's global trade growth and economic resilience. With more than 25 international representations, including in the Indo-Pacific, Europe, and Latin America, EDC can effectively help Canadian agri-food companies through on-the-ground support, market intelligence, business connections and financial solutions. Through our Business Connections Program, EDC facilitated more than 300 introductions between Canadian agri-food exporters and vetted international buyers, distributors and partners in 2024, helping companies accelerate their global growth.

Examples of Canadian medium-sized companies that have diversified into key markets such as the Indo-Pacific, Europe and Latin America include EDC customers: Ran Foods, Yourbarfactory and Daiya Foods.

Company Quotes 

1. Ran Foods 

"Ran Foods began as a small, family-operated sushi restaurant in 2009, importing authentic Asian cuisine. Today, we're proud to be recognized as one of Canada's leading food innovators. With EDC's support, we've expanded into new international markets, including Latin America, introducing our ramen noodles, seaweed snacks and sauces to a global audience. Through EDC's Business Connections Program, we've connected with major retailers in Mexico and built strong relationships across North America. That momentum has inspired us to pursue exciting new opportunities in Europe and Australia." 

-- Daniel Kim, VP of Operations at Ran Foods 

2. Yourbarfactory 

"In 2024, Yourbarfactory reached a major milestone--100 million units sold worldwide--solidifying our position as a key global player in the custom bar market. With EDC's financial support, we are creating new products and expanding our footprint in Chile and Europe. We are working with multiple brand owners and deepening relationships with in-market retailers who rely on us for innovation, consistency, and high-quality allergen-free and gluten-free snack bars with the added potential to be organic and vegan. This support empowers us to meet evolving tastes across international markets and deliver Canadian-made excellence under trusted local brands."  

-- Martin Joyal, CEO of Yourbarfactory 

3. Daiya Foods

"At Daiya, our passion is redefining comfort food for a new generation of cheese lovers--offering dairy-free foods that taste as good as they make you feel. With support from EDC's Foreign Exchange Facility Guarantee, we've been able to unlock working capital and reduce collateral requirements on foreign exchange contracts, allowing us to strengthen our global operations and invest in innovation--from new production capabilities to technologies that enhance taste and texture. This is one of many steps we're taking as we continue to grow beyond Canada and reach more people across the Indo-Pacific and beyond."

-- Hajime Fujita, CEO, Daiya Foods

About EDC 

Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation dedicated to helping Canadian businesses make an impact at home and abroad. EDC has the financial products and knowledge Canadian companies need to confidently enter new markets, reduce financial risk and grow their business as they go from local to global. Together, EDC and Canadian companies are building a more prosperous, stronger and sustainable economy for all Canadians. For more information and to learn how we can help your company, call us at 1-800-229-0575 or visit www.edc.ca. 

SOURCE Export Development Canada