Ottawa, December 7, 2023 – Food and Beverage Canada – Aliments et boissons Canada (FBC-ABC) applauds the recent announcement by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, extending the waiver on the 20-hour-per-week limit for off-campus work hours for international students until April 30, 2024.

“We are encouraged by the government’s decision to extend the waiver on off-campus work hours for international students. As the food and beverage manufacturing sector continues to grapple with labor shortages, this extension is a welcomed relief,” said Kristina Farrell, FBC-ABC CEO.

The food and beverage manufacturing sector is a vital component of Canada’s economy, and the ability to leverage the skills and talents of international students will undoubtedly contribute to the sector’s resilience. FBC-ABC and its members anticipate engaging in discussions regarding further adjustments to the program, such as advocating for an increase in off-campus work hours for international students on a permanent basis.

Media contact:
Kristina Farrell, FBC-ABC CEO
kristina.farrell@fbc-abc.com