CPMA names agriculture minister 2026 Produce Champion

The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) has named Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald as its 2026 Produce Champion.

CPMA’s annual Produce Champion award is presented to a member of parliament or senator who has shown “exceptional support for the industry and demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing key priorities on Parliament Hill,” the organization said. 

“Heath MacDonald has been a steadfast champion of Canada’s fresh produce sector long before his time as Minister. He has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges facing our sector,” said CPMA president Ron Lemaire in a press release. “During his tenure as Minister, that commitment has continued—supporting policies that strengthen our supply chains, enhance food security, and ensure the long-term competitiveness of Canadian produce. We are proud to recognize Minister MacDonald as this year’s Produce Champion.”

Last month, CPMA joined MacDonald and Prime Minister Mark Carney in Toronto for the release of the federal government’s National Food Security Strategy, which includes several commitments relating to the Canadian fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain. 

“On behalf of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, thank you to the Canadian Produce Marketing Association for naming me your 2026 Produce Champion. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is travelling across the country and meeting with the farmers, processors, and industry leaders who are driving Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector forward,” said MacDonald in a statement.