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The National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF) firmly opposes the unjustified trade barriers imposed by the United States, which threaten Indigenous agriculture, agri-food businesses, and the broader principles of fair and equitable trade.
Indigenous Peoples have engaged in trade and commerce since time immemorial, long before international borders divided Turtle Island. Our trade networks have sustained nations, economies, and food systems, and we continue to adapt and advocate for economic sovereignty in the face of new challenges.
Since its conception, the NCIAF has been actively working to support Indigenous agricultural and agri-food businesses by:
- Collaborating with Indigenous leaders across the country to ensure Indigenous perspectives are represented in key policy discussions.
- Pushing for prioritization of Indigenous procurement at all levels of government to create stronger domestic markets for Indigenous agricultural products.
- Working with industry and government leaders to ensure Indigenous producers remain competitive and are not disproportionately impacted by trade disruptions.
- Advocating for the removal of interprovincial trade barriers restricting free movement of Indigenous agricultural goods within Canada, which further impedes the growth of Indigenous businesses.
At the NCIAF, we are committed to advancing reconciliation within the agriculture industry while fostering a national dialogue on Indigenous agriculture. Our focus is on strengthening food security and sovereignty while enhancing Indigenous roles in global food provision. As we continue to support our Indigenous entrepreneurs, business owners, and agri-food businesses, we strive to provide access to support programs, ensuring Indigenous agriculture and agri-food businesses can access government and industry-led programs designed to mitigate trade disruptions.
The NCIAF remains steadfast in protecting Indigenous food systems, supporting agricultural entrepreneurship, and advocating for equitable trade policies that recognize the inherent rights of Indigenous producers. We encourage Indigenous agribusinesses to stay connected, share their concerns, and access the resources we are developing.
Together, we will continue to strengthen our food sovereignty and economic resilience.
About the NCIAF: The National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food is dedicated to advancing Indigenous participation in Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector by providing support, advocacy, and resources to Indigenous farmers, food producers, and agribusinesses. Our mission is to strengthen Indigenous food systems, foster economic growth, and uphold the principles of food sovereignty across Turtle Island.