Mandate Farm Growth Strategy and Targets

Summary#

• This bill tells the Nova Scotia government to create a clear plan to grow the province’s agriculture sector.

• The plan must set targets, spell out actions to boost local demand and exports, and include a firm timeline.

• Key points:

  • The Minister of Agriculture must consult farmers and industry and publish an Agriculture Expansion Strategy within six months of the law taking effect.
  • The Strategy must include clear growth targets for agriculture.
  • It must list government actions to increase local demand for Nova Scotia-grown products.
  • It must list actions to help producers sell more to other provinces and other countries.
  • It must set an implementation deadline no later than January 1, 2027.
  • The Department must post the Strategy online and update the website at least monthly to show progress.

What it means for you#

• Farmers and producers

  • You will be asked for input as the government designs the Strategy.
  • You may see new efforts to help you sell more food in Nova Scotia and outside the province.
  • You can track monthly progress online to see if targets are being met.

• Food businesses (processors, distributors, retailers, restaurants)

  • The government will plan steps to increase local demand, which could include promotion or support to get more Nova Scotia products onto shelves and menus.
  • Export-related actions could make it easier to reach buyers in other provinces and countries.

• Consumers

  • You may see more Nova Scotia-grown food promoted in stores and restaurants.
  • You will be able to view monthly updates on how the Strategy is going.

• Communities and the public

  • There will be clearer goals for growing agriculture and regular public reporting.
  • The plan’s deadline (no later than January 1, 2027) sets a time limit for action.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

• Sets clear goals and a timeline to grow agriculture, instead of scattered efforts.
• Builds the plan with farmer and industry input so it fits real needs.
• Boosts sales at home and outside the province, which supporters say could strengthen rural economies.
• Public posting and monthly progress updates improve transparency and accountability.
• A province-wide Strategy can align different programs and reduce duplication.

Opponents' View#

• Creates a plan but does not commit funding or specific programs, so impact may be limited.
• Leaves key details for later, so people cannot judge the actions or targets now.
• Monthly reporting could add red tape and take staff time away from direct support.
• Targets might be unrealistic or shift focus toward exports over small local producers.
• Without enforcement if targets are missed, the Strategy could become a checklist rather than real change.