Ottawa, Ontario – April 17, 2026 – Food and Beverage Canada (FBC-ABC) and Canada’s six provincial and regional associations are calling on the Government of Canada to provide urgent clarity on its Budget 2025 commitment to transition up to 33,000 foreign workers to permanent residency in 2026 and 2027, emphasizing the critical need to prioritize workers in the food and beverage manufacturing industry.

While FBC-ABC welcomed the announcement as a positive step toward addressing ongoing labour challenges, the absence of program details has created growing uncertainty for employers and workers across the country.

“Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing industry depends on a stable and skilled workforce to maintain production and ensure food security,” said Kristina Farrell, CEO of Food and Beverage Canada. “Without clear timelines and program details, companies are unable to plan, and workers are left uncertain about their future in Canada.”

As the country’s largest manufacturing employer, the food and beverage manufacturing industry employs more than 320,000 Canadians and generates nearly $120B in annual revenues. The industry plays a critical role in transforming Canadian agricultural products into safe, high-quality food for domestic and global markets.

FBC-ABC notes that foreign workers are an essential part of this workforce. Some companies – across both urban and rural communities – report that up to 20% of their workforce is made up of foreign workers on open work permits, filling vital, year-round roles.

“These are essential positions that require experience and continuity,” added Farrell. “A stable workforce is not only a business necessity – it is fundamental to Canada’s food security and food sovereignty.”

However, access to permanent residency pathways through existing programs has been limited. As a result, many employers are facing workforce instability, with experienced employees at risk of leaving Canada due to expiring work permits and a lack of viable pathways to remain.

FBC-ABC is urging the federal government to provide immediate clarity on timelines and eligibility criteria, and to ensure that workers in food and beverage manufacturing – both in rural and urban settings – are prioritized in the allocation of available spaces.

FBC-ABC has formally submitted a letter to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship outlining these concerns and requesting urgent clarity and engagement on program design.

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
Chief Executive Officer, Food and Beverage Canada
613-322-9235