Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Government of Alberta has announced conditional approval of financial support for major dairy processing upgrades under its Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit (APITC) program, aimed at strengthening the province’s food manufacturing sector and boosting value-added agricultural production.
As part of the initiative, Lactalis Canada Inc. has been granted conditional approval for a tax credit of up to $1.7 million to support modernization and expansion work at its dairy processing plants in Calgary and Lethbridge.
The planned upgrades are expected to improve Alberta’s dairy supply chain by increasing processing capacity, enhancing food safety systems and introducing advanced automation technologies. The projects are also expected to increase milk utilization from local producers, lower environmental impact and help secure long-term manufacturing jobs in the province.
Provincial officials said the investment reflects Alberta’s growing strength as a centre for agricultural processing and manufacturing.
Tara Sawyer, Alberta’s Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, said the province continues to attract large-scale agri-processing investments due to its competitive advantages and supportive policy framework.
She noted that the tax credit program is helping drive economic growth by encouraging expansion in value-added agriculture, creating jobs and strengthening Alberta’s food production capabilities.
Lactalis Canada also welcomed the support, saying the investment will accelerate growth in Alberta’s dairy sector.
Gilles Froment, Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations at Lactalis Canada, said the company remains committed to delivering quality dairy products while working with the provincial government to build long-term value for farmers, employees and communities across Alberta.
He added that the incentive will help fast-track strategic investments that benefit local dairy producers and reinforce food manufacturing capacity in Canada.
The Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit offers a 12 per cent non-refundable and non-transferable tax credit for businesses investing $10 million or more in projects that establish or expand value-added agri-processing facilities in Alberta.
The program is open to food manufacturers and bio-processors involved in converting agricultural commodities such as grains, meat and byproducts into consumer or industrial products. Each eligible project can receive tax credits of up to $175 million.
The initiative is part of Alberta’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and strengthen its position as a leader in value-added agricultural processing.
