Czech Companies Shine at food show SIAL Canada 2025
15.05.2025 / 15:23 | Aktualizováno: 15.05.2025 / 15:29
From April 29 to May 1, 2025, Toronto hosted SIAL Canada, the biggest food trade show, attracting thousands of exhibitors and visitors from around the world. The Czech national pavilion, organized by the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Ottawa, showcased six leading Czech brands: Budějovický Budvar, Emco, Marlenka, Znojmia, Hamé, and J4. Their participation not only raised awareness of Czech products but also opened doors to new business opportunities in the Canadian market.
Czech Pavilion: Tradition Meets Innovation
The Czech pavilion presented a diverse range of products, blending rich tradition with modern trends. Budějovický Budvar, known in Canada as Czechvar, reinforced its strong position in the beer sector. Visitors enjoyed its signature premium lager, served using a Lindr machine, together with dark lager, which added to the presentation’s appeal. Marlenka showcased its iconic honey cake, already well-established in Canada, and used the show to expand its network of business contacts. Emco drew attention with its healthy breakfast products, while Znojmia and Hamé offered a wide array of canned foods. J4 impressed with innovative food solutions in bakery tunnel ovens.
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The participation of these companies was supported by the Czech Ministry of Agriculture through the economic diplomacy tool, aimed at helping Czech exporters to access foreign markets.
SIAL Canada: A starting point for Czech Companies
SIAL Canada is an ideal show for Czech companies seeking to enter or strengthen their presence in the Canadian market. With over 1000 exhibitors and more than 23 000 visitors, the event offers unique opportunities to connect with distributors, buyers, and investors. The Hosted Buyers Program facilitates meetings with key purchasers, while accompanying conferences and networking events help exhibitors better understand the local market.
Canadian Market: A Gateway to North American Opportunities
Canada represents a strategic partner for Czech companies in North America. With a population exceeding 40 million and a robust economy, the country offers significant opportunities, particularly in the food and beverage sector. Ontario, where the trade show was held, is Canada’s economic hub, and Toronto, its largest city, is an ideal location for making business connections. Additionally, the French-speaking province of Québec, known for its affinity for European products, presents another attractive target for Czech exporters.
The Canadian market is characterized by growing demand for healthy, organic, and ethically sourced products. Consumers prioritize quality, sustainability, and innovation—qualities that align perfectly with the offerings of Czech companies. The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between the EU and Canada further facilitates exports by eliminating up to 92% of import tariffs for agriculture and food goods.
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The Future of Czech Exports in Canada
The participation of Czech companies at SIAL Canada 2025 clearly demonstrated that Czech products have much to offer the Canadian market. The combination of traditional recipes, high quality, and innovation, as showcased by Budějovický Budvar, Emco, Marlenka, Znojmia, Hamé, and J4, is key to success. Support from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Ottawa provides Czech exporters with a strong foundation to enter this competitive market.
Canada remains a market with immense potential, whether for food, beverages, or technological solutions for the food industry. SIAL Canada is not only an opportunity for promotion but also a starting point or long-term business relationships.
Next edition of SIAL Canada show will be held in Montreal from April, 29 till May, 1 2026.
Filip Lames, agricultural diplomat, Embassy of the Czech Republic in Ottawa