Today, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced details of a new two-year, up to $166-million Wine Sector Support Program.  

As Canada’s most prominent wine-producing region, Niagara’s economy will be particularly assisted by this program. 

“Niagara wine is world-class, as we all know,” said GNCC CEO Mishka Balsom. “However, that also means we are on the world stage with wines from France, Italy, California, Australia, and other world industries that often have greater resources available. This program will help Niagara’s wine industry hold and build upon the world recognition it deserves.” 

Wineries have suffered considerably from the loss of tourist revenue over the last two years, owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some wineries reported to the GNCC that their in-person visitors had dropped to as little as 10% of their pre-pandemic figures. 

“Although tourist numbers are starting to recover,” continued Balsom, “there are new challenges facing the industry – inflation, staff shortages, fuel costs, and the increasing impact of climate change. We are pleased to see the Government of Canada recognize these pressures and we welcome their willingness to step in and help the industry.” 

The Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business in Niagara, the largest business organization in the region and the second-largest Chamber of Commerce in Ontario, with 1,500 members representing 50,000 employees. More information on the GNCC is available at gncc.ca.  

Contact:
Mishka Balsom, CEO of GNCC
Mishka@gncc.ca or 905-684-2361