The Liberal government’s 10-year plan to improve food affordability and security commits $1 billion to make it easier for independent grocers and local farmers to compete with major chains on price and distribution, including by building two new food terminals. (The Logic)

Talking point: The Liberals have faced political pressure for the rising cost of food in Canada, which has outpaced the average rate of overall inflation to grow 31 per cent since January 2020. Global shocks play a role, but so does having five retailers—Loblaw, Metro, Walmart, Costco and Empire, which owns Sobeys—account for 75 per cent of sales, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Thursday. A short growing season also means Canada imports 88 per cent of fresh fruit and nuts, and 72 per cent of vegetables. The strategy includes $750 million over seven years to help farmers grow fresh food year-round, such as by upgrading greenhouses.