Go global with COTA.
In 2021, global market organic sales were estimated at CAD $182 billion. Canada is the fifth largest organic market in the world, with sales valued at $9.3 billion in 2021, up from $5.4 billion in 2017. The sector shows dynamic growth and continues outpacing other agri-market sectors. To take advantage of untapped export potential, COTA partners with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Agri-Marketing program to develop a long-term international marketing strategy to help expand Canada’s organic sector and success in target markets.
COTA’s international market development strategy identifies target markets, products and key entry points. This benefits the Canadian organic sector by identifying gaps in the supply chain new opportunities and innovations, and providing a more coordinated approach to capacity development. COTA’s market strategy promotes exports of Canadian organic products in a quickly-expanding global organic market.
There are two key aspects of COTA’s export program that help members.
Trade Show and Trade Mission Support
To help members develop and strengthen strategic export markets, COTA organizes international trade exhibits and trade missions (outgoing exporter missions and incoming buyer missions). COTA members benefit from significantly reduced rates for exhibit space and travel, through matched funding assistance.
Market Information Service and Technical Regulations
In support of the export development activities, COTA produces timely international market reports which are tailored to members’ needs. Through the reports and customized advice, we help members with information on meeting technical requirements for different markets. Reports for Japan, Germany, the U.S. and other markets are available for COTA members.
For more information contact My-Lien Bosch, Government Relations & Regulatory Affairs Manager
Buyer Missions
COTA has pivoted our buyer mission service to an online model. This format is opening up exciting opportunities, such as being able to increase the volume and reach of our buyers missions. We are hoping to increase the number of missions we are conducting from previous years, facilitated by the new virtual format. COTA is providing a bespoke meeting program, connecting Canadian organic producers with buyers from the international market.
For more information, please contact us
Organic Export Support Fund
The Organic Trade Association of Canada (COTA) has a fund to promote the export of Canadian organic products worldwide. This fund provides a grant to all exporters of organic products to help cover the cost of shipping samples to foreign buyers interested in their products.
Need help accessing international markets?
COTA Members have exclusive access to information and discounted trade show and trade mission activities. Become a member so that we can help you grow your business.