Québec Maple Syrup Producers Logo (CNW Group/Québec Maple Syrup Producers)
Québec Maple Syrup Producers (QMSP) welcomed Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's (AAFC) announcement of record funding for promoting maple syrup overseas. The federal government pledges up to $3.6 million from its AgriMarketing Program over three years, aiming to elevate the Maple from Canada brand in key export markets such as the UK, Germany, Japan, and Australia.
Luc Goulet, President of QMSP, hailed AAFC's generous funding as a significant boost for promoting Canadian maple syrup globally. He emphasized the ongoing effort to educate consumers about maple syrup's benefits and versatility. The funding will enable differentiation from other sweeteners, addressing environmental concerns and aligning with current food trends.
Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, highlighted Canadian maple syrup's superior quality, versatility, and sustainability. He stressed that the funding would enhance awareness, drive demand, increase exports, and provide more opportunities for maple producers.
QMSP's investments in generic maple syrup promotion have yielded positive results, with sales and exports experiencing notable growth. Collaborative efforts have seen exports rise by 28% from 2019 to 2023.
David Marino, QMSP's Director of Promotion and Market Development, expressed gratitude for the federal government's support, recognizing it as recognition for the hard work of maple producers. He highlighted the exceptional quality of Canadian maple products, exported to over 70 countries worldwide.
Québec Maple Syrup Producers represents 13,300 maple producers and 8,000 maple enterprises, accounting for approximately 72% of the world's maple syrup production. Québec's maple syrup is exported to more than 70 countries, making it a significant player in the global maple syrup market.
