Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) is the provincial department responsible for Ontario's agriculture, food production, and rural development. It develops agricultural policies, supports farm businesses, regulates food safety, and drives rural economic initiatives. Working closely with stakeholders, OMAFRA promotes technology adoption, market growth, and environmental sustainability.
Through agencies like Agricorp, the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario (ARIO), and the Ontario Food Terminal Board, the Ministry monitors crop and livestock health, funds research, and manages wholesale food distribution. It also oversees programs for business risk management, land drainage, and appeals through the Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Appeal Tribunal.
Department Spending
In Financial Year 2023-24,
$938M
was spent by Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
In Financial Year 2023-24,
0.5%
of Ontario provincial spending was by Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
OMAFRA spent $938M in fiscal year (FY) 2023-24, representing 0.5% of the $206.6B in total provincial spending. This investment supports farmers, food producers, and rural communities throughout Ontario.
This ministry plays a crucial role in Ontario's economy, ensuring food security, supporting agricultural innovation, and promoting sustainable farming practices. It helps maintain Ontario's position as a leading agricultural producer while supporting rural communities and economic development.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs operates programs including agricultural insurance, research and innovation funding, rural economic development initiatives, food safety oversight, and support for the University of Guelph's agricultural programs.
Priorities: Sustainable Farming & Rural Vitality
OMAFRA focuses on five key priorities:
- Agri-food growth – OMAFRA invests in innovation, value-chain improvements, and export development.
- Sustainability – It promotes environmental stewardship and eco-friendly farming through guidance and funding.
- Farm business supports – From risk-management tools to digital transformation of pesticide guides, services are tailored to farmer needs.
- Northern expansion – Programs aim to extend agriculture into Northern Ontario, increasing rural resilience.
- Rural economies – With the establishment of a stand-alone Ministry of Rural Affairs in June 2024, led by Lisa Thompson, there is renewed emphasis on small-town growth and infrastructure.
Leadership & Oversight
OMAFRA is led by the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (formerly Lisa Thompson until June 2024 when she became standalone Minister of Rural Affairs). The Minister is appointed by the Premier and accountable to the Legislature. The department's governance includes agencies such as ARIO, Agricorp, the Food Terminal Board, and an independent Appeal Tribunal
