Canadian agri-food companies are increasingly seeking growth beyond traditional markets, targeting new opportunities in the Indo-Pacific, Europe and Latin America, according to Export Development Canada (EDC).
The Crown corporation said demand is rising internationally for Canadian plant-based foods, food innovation, and private-label products, prompting more exporters to pursue global expansion.
Ashley Kanary
“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.”
Kanary noted that changing dietary trends, urbanization and a growing middle class in regions like the Indo-Pacific and Latin America are creating significant demand for Canadian products. In Europe, opportunities are emerging in 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,” she said.
Canada, the world’s fifth-largest food exporter, benefits from 15 free trade agreements covering 51 countries. While the country is known for its raw agricultural production, EDC emphasized that value-added activities—such as processing, packaging and marketing—are strengthening the sector’s competitiveness and innovation.
In 2024, Canada’s agri-food exports reached approximately $100 billion. EDC supported $21 billion in trade-related activity through loans, investments, working capital and insurance.
Guillermo Freire
“Canada’s future trade success depends on our ability to lead in sectors that are globally relevant and aligned with our national strengths,” said Guillermo Freire, senior vice-president of EDC’s Mid-Market Group. “Increasing global demand for Canadian food products is a testament to our agricultural leadership and an opportunity to grow beyond North America.”
Freire said investing in strategic infrastructure such as transportation and food storage systems is key to supporting export growth. “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,” he said.
The federal government has outlined ambitious targets for the agri-food sector, which EDC has made a strategic priority. With over 25 international offices—including in Europe, Latin America and the Indo-Pacific—EDC offers financial support, market intelligence and international business connections to Canadian exporters.
In 2024, EDC’s Business Connections Program facilitated more than 300 introductions between Canadian agri-food companies and international buyers, distributors and partners.
Ran Foods, a former family-run restaurant turned food exporter, has benefited from EDC’s services.
“Ran Foods began as a small, family-operated sushi restaurant in 2009, importing authentic Asian cuisine,” said Daniel Kim, vice-president of operations. “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.”
Montreal-based Yourbarfactory, a manufacturer of custom snack bars, also marked global success.
Martin Joyal
“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,” said Martin Joyal, CEO of Yourbarfactory.
“With EDC’s financial support, we are creating new products and expanding our footprint in Chile and Europe. This support empowers us to meet evolving tastes across international markets and deliver Canadian-made excellence under trusted local brands.”
Plant-based food producer Daiya Foods credited EDC’s financial tools for helping expand its international reach.
Hajime Fujita
“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,” said Hajime Fujita, CEO of Daiya Foods.
“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.”
Export Development Canada is a financial Crown corporation that helps Canadian companies enter global markets and manage financial risk. The organization says it is committed to building a stronger, more resilient economy by supporting trade growth across key sectors.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Entrepreneur. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 and 2024 as one of the top business journalists in the world by PR News. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024 and 2025.
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