For agri-food businesses in B.C., exporting isn’t just an opportunity; it’s often a necessity. Global markets can provide stability, scalability and long-term growth that isn’t always possible for specialty food producers, processors, growers and value-added manufacturers.  

B.C.’s agri-food companies know their market and its limitations well. Relying on a single market is becoming risky, especially when dealing with rising input costs, limited domestic shelf space and shifting traditional trade relationships.  

Exporting opens doors to larger markets, creating more consistent demand and improving long-term stability. At the same time, exporting agri-food comes with complex regulatory requirements. From food safety and labelling to permits and traceability, understanding both the opportunities and the rules are essential for success in global markets. 

New markets offer new opportunity for today’s agri-food businesses 

Exporting plays an important role in the success of agri-food businesses, particularly in Canada, where production capacity often exceeds local demand. According to Farm Credit Canada, in 2019 alone Canada was fifth in global commodity exports, trading $67 billion in agriculture and food products. 

“Made in Canada” has real value 

Canada’s population is relatively small, globally speaking, but there is strong demand for safe, high-quality Canadian-grown and made food products. Exporting allows agri-food businesses to reach millions more consumers, many of whom actively seek out Canadian products for their quality, safety standards and reliability.  

Plus, in many international markets, buyers are willing to pay more for products that emphasize traceability, sustainability and food safety, particularly in markets across Asia and Europe. Exporting allows producers and processors to capture premium value instead of competing solely on price in new markets. 

Decreasing risk across markets 

Diversification through exporting also reduces risk for seasonal and climate-dependent businesses. Agri-food businesses are especially vulnerable to weather events, seasonal production cycles and shifting domestic demand. Exporting helps businesses diversify revenue streams across markets, reducing reliance on a single customer base and improving resilience to price swings, economic downturns or changing tariffs and export regulations, especially in today’s geopolitical reality.  

Exporting can also open doors to scaling, encouraging investments in new equipment, processing capacity, certifications or product innovation. That national and international growth can feed stronger growth at home, supporting jobs, infrastructure and long-term sustainability.  

Take advantage of export opportunities 

Exporting food products isn’t as simple as shipping across a border. Success starts with good planning to manage the many rules and regulations.  

Know your target market. Different countries have different tastes, packaging expectations and regulations. What sells well in the U.S. will need an adjustment for Asia, Europe or Australia.  

Understand trade agreements and tariffs. The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) give Canadian agri-food exporters tariff advantages in key markets, if the products meet the rules of origin and compliance requirements.  

Prepare for regulatory compliance. Agri-food exports often require food safety certifications, export permits, country-specific labelling, ingredient approvals and traceability documentation.  

Build the right partnerships. Customs brokers, freight forwarders, inspectors and local distributors play a critical role in getting products to market.  

For agri-food businesses today, this means real opportunity with the right preparation. 

How Export Navigator can help 

Navigating regulatory complexity is where many agri-food companies get stuck. Export regulations vary by product or destination, and they can change quickly. Requirements may involve Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) rules, import regulations in the destination country, labelling, packaging and language standards, and ongoing compliance. Trying to manage this alone can be overwhelming, especially for small and medium-sized businesses without in-house trade expertise. 

Export Navigator helps B.C. agri-food businesses move from opportunity to execution. Through free, one-on-one support, Export Advisors can help you: 

  • Identify export-ready markets for your products 
  • Understand regulatory and food safety requirements 
  • Comprehend trade agreements and tariff savings 
  • Connect with service providers, such as customs brokers 
  • Prepare for certifications, documentation and compliance 

Whether you’re exporting for the first time or looking to expand into new markets, Export Navigator helps make a complex process manageable. 

Exporting can be a powerful growth strategy for agri-food businesses, but success depends on preparation, compliance and the right support. With strong global demand for Canadian food products, the opportunity is real. 

If you’re ready to explore the world, Export Navigator is here to help. 

Join or view our webinar series on agri-food to learn more:  

  • January 15, 2026: Expand Your Agrifood Business Across BC 
  • January 29, 2026: Break Into National Retail as a BC Agrifood Business 
  • March 19, 2026: Logistics of Getting Your Agrifood Product to Market