In the wake of U.S. tariffs, N.S. academics call for food to be part of national defence

In the midst of escalating tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs and threats of annexation, some academics at Halifax universities are urging Canada to evaluate its ability to sustain its population in times of crisis. They argue that Canada should consider food as a critical component of the country’s national defense strategy.

Karen Foster, an associate professor at Dalhousie University specializing in food systems and rural communities, emphasized the importance of a secure food supply. She highlighted that having a robust arsenal is meaningless if the population is not adequately nourished. Foster, along with three other academics, recently penned an article on this topic in The Conversation, stressing the need for Canada to prioritize its food system.

The recent imposition of U.S. tariffs and the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the vulnerabilities in Canada’s reliance on imported food. Foster pointed out that both consumers and producers are heavily dependent on foreign markets, leaving the nation susceptible to potential shortages.

Countries like Sweden have already recognized the significance of food security in their national defense strategies. Following suit, Halifax is taking steps towards enhancing its local food system. The Halifax Regional Food Hub, a cooperative venture, aims to streamline the distribution of locally sourced food from farmers and producers across Nova Scotia to communities in the region.

Justin Cantafio, a director at the food hub, emphasized the need for improved infrastructure to support the growth of Nova Scotia’s local food network. With substantial funding from the provincial government, the food hub is making strides in establishing facilities for processing and distributing food to various customers, such as restaurants and institutions.

Collaborating with organizations like Feed Nova Scotia and the Mobile Food Market, the food hub is on track to commence operations by 2026. By promoting domestic food production and investing in distribution infrastructure, Canada can bolster its resilience against potential crises.

Foster highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts across sectors and the implementation of strategies like Nova Scotia’s Food and Beverage Strategy. This initiative aims to enhance access to healthy local food and boost production within the province. Foster emphasized the need for ongoing support and resources to ensure the success of such initiatives.

As Canada navigates through uncertain times, the integration of food security into national defense strategies is becoming increasingly imperative. By fortifying its food system and reducing reliance on imports, Canada can better safeguard its population and ensure a stable supply of essential goods in times of need.