Export Development Canada (EDC) highlights support for agri-food sector

OTTAWA — Amid shifting global trade dynamics, Export Development Canada (EDC) says it 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 reportedly 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 an 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, the EDC stated in a press release.

“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.

The EDC outlined three companies that have diversified into key markets such as the Indo-Pacific, Europe and Latin American regions: Ran Foods, Yourbarfactory and Daiya Foods.

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,” stated 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,” said 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,” said Hajime Fujita, CEO, Daiya Foods.