A provincial trade mission to Turkey has identified significant opportunities for Alberta in the areas of sheep and goat genetics, live cattle and cattle genetics, pulses, pet food, and agriculture-focused post-secondary education and training.
The Alberta delegation included OC Flock Management (a Bowden-based company specializing in small ruminants’ reproductive technologies and genetics), ITS Global (a traceability solution provider to the cattle industry globally), and Champion Pet Food (an Alberta-based exporter of biologically appropriate pet food made with locally sourced natural ingredients).
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The group met with numerous government and industry officials, said Aarij Bashir, trade and relations officer with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development.
“The primary focus of discussions was around livestock and provided an opportunity for the delegation to promote Alberta’s expertise in animal genetics and livestock traceability systems,” he said. “As Turkey plans to improve the genetic base of its cattle, sheep and goat herds, there are plenty of opportunities for Alberta’s industry.”
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Canada is currently negotiating a live cattle health certificate with Turkey that will open the market for Canadian cattle to be exported to Turkey.
“At the moment, most producers in Turkey do not differentiate between beef cattle and dairy cattle and there seems to be a high demand for dual-purpose breeds,” said Bashir. “However, there are a few progressive groups that are introducing beef genetics in the cattle system. There is a need to educate the producers on the benefits of beef cattle compared to dairy cattle and provide them with proper management skills relevant to beef herds.”
Turkey has a big sheep and goat industry where the herds are suffering from declining productivity. “This presents a great opportunity for Alberta companies to export high-quality sheep and goat genetics to the region,” said Bashir.
“Sheep and goats are important culturally in Turkey, both as a source of meat and dairy, as well as rural livelihood. The hilly terrain of Turkey and lack of pasture land make it suitable for small ruminants.”
