What an incredible year 2009 has been for organic in Canada! OTA in Canada is proud to have led the Canadian sector in these major achievements:
A new organic standard and government-backing
Clear new rules and labelling for everyone
A new “Biologique Canada Organic” logo that will build consumer trust and awareness
The world’s first organic equivalency agreement for trade with the United States
A top-notch Canadian consumer campaign through national media and web presence
We have worked with government, with partner organizations, and on your behalf to keep up the momentum, to provide education and business resources, and to expand your organic market at home and abroad.
Help us continue this important work in 2010. There is strength in numbers and results in collective action. This year, with your support, OTA in Canada will:
Continue to reach out to Canadian consumers as we did in the Globe and Mail special report and with the launch of the www.OrganicBiologique.ca website
Continue to advocate for Canada’s organic trading community: supporting the equivalency negotiations with the European Union and assisting in the roll-out of the new agreement with the United States
Continue to develop rigourous standards for all organic sectors, and work with industry and government to adequately address unregulated areas such as provincial trade, pet foods, fibre & textiles, and personal care products
Expand Canada’s visibility in world markets—in 2010 OTA in Canada will launch an unprecedented international strategy for Canadian exports, which will brand Canadian organic products and assist us in reaching new markets and business opportunities. Agriculture Canada is working with OTA in Canada on this exciting new project.
Work with us. Support us. Let’s keep organic growing.
My vision is to connect the Canadian organic sector with our markets in the U.S., Europe and Asia—converting more Canadian farmers than ever before to organic production through higher demand, and giving us access to the organic supply we need in order to grow the kind of value-added sector Canada should have. Your association needs collective investment to make this happen. Please support OTA’s annual fund drive—the smallest contribution helps.
Thanking you for your commitment to a better way, and wishing you continued growth and success in 2010!
Matthew Holmes
Managing Director
PS: OTA in Canada needs an additional $50,000 this year to meet your expectations for what your trade association needs to do. Please remember that all of your support in the annual fund goes directly to our Canadian projects and programs!
