In the fall of 2021, the detection of potato wart disrupted sales of P.E.I. potatoes to the United States, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of Islanders. The Government of Canada launched the Prince Edward Island Potato Stabilization and Innovation Initiative (PSII) to help the industry recover.
The PSII is a two-year $16 million initiative that is helping small and medium-sized enterprises modernize, diversify and adapt to meet changing market conditions. The initiative supports investments in a range of areas including digitalization and automation, improved storage, development of value-added products, and diversification.
Yesterday, Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced a combined contribution of over $12.5 million for 27 businesses across P.E.I.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to work with the P.E.I. potato sector to ensure that producers, and the businesses that support them, are positioned for long-term sustainable growth.
Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA: “When potato wart shut down the export of P.E.I. potatoes to the U.S. and other international markets in 2021, the federal government began working with producers and industry partners to forge a new path forward. We will continue working together to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience for this pillar of the Island economy.”
Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Cardigan: “The Island’s potato industry is an iconic cornerstone of our economy, and a real great source of pride for communities right across the province. This federal support will help the sector continue to recover and provide island farmers with the tools to build resiliency for generations to come.”
For more information: canada.ca