February 12, 2026 (OTTAWA) – Food and Beverage Canada (FBC-ABC) convened its Board of Directors this week for a productive meeting focused on the policy and advocacy priorities shaping the future of Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing industry. 

As Canada’s largest manufacturing sector and largest manufacturing employer, the food and beverage manufacturing industry plays a critical role in advancing the federal government’s goals around market diversification and export growth. Board discussions focused on what manufacturers need to meet these objectives, including targeted investments in productivity and competitiveness, supportive trade and market-access policies, and a regulatory environment that enables growth rather than constrains it. 

A key area of discussion was the continued expansion of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs across the country.  The Board examined the increasing complexity and cost pressures associated with EPR and discussed the leadership role Food and Beverage Canada will take in convening and coordinating discussions with members and provincial and regional associates to help shape effective and workable approaches.  

The Board was pleased to welcome Kody Blois, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, for a candid discussion on the government’s view of the opportunity facing the industry. The discussed focused on how industry and government can work together to unlock growth and how Food and Beverage Canada can serve as a trusted resource in advancing shared economic and trade objectives. 

Directors also heard updates from each of the provincial and regional food and beverage manufacturing associations, highlighting the unique realities manufacturers face across the country and the impact of provincial and regional government priorities. These perspectives reinforced the importance of grounding national advocacy in regional conditions.  

The Board meeting preceded Food and Beverage Canada’s largest policy breakfast to date, Canada as a Global Food Powerhouse: Building the Future of Food and Beverage Manufacturing. This sold-out event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders for a timely discussion on Canada’s global competitiveness, investment needs, and the untapped potential for value-added products. Food and Beverage Canada extends its sincere thanks to event sponsors Export Development Canada, Farm Credit Canada, Lantic, Loblaw Companies Limited, and the Fisheries Council of Canada for their support in making this important conversation possible. This event continues to serve as a key forum for advancing dialogue. 

About Food and Beverage Canada (FBC-ABC): Food and Beverage Canada is the national industry association representing Canada’s domestic food and beverage manufacturers. FBC-ABC works with members, provincial and regional associations, and government to advance policies that support a competitive industry that provides safe, high-quality food for Canadians and global markets.  

Media contact: 
Kristina Farrell 
CEO, Food and Beverage Canada 
613-322-9235