Communiqués

Sugaring Time Recognized as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage”

April 15, 2021

QMSP Hails Government Designation

 

Longueuil, April 15, 2021 –Québec Maple Syrup Producers (QMSP) takes joy and pride in the provincial government’s decision to officially name the annual sugaring season as a part of Québec’s cultural heritage. Coming after the celebration of 100 years of maple production in 2020, the announcement recognizes our industry’s contributions to the Québec economy and affirms the importance of its tradition to our cultural identity.

On April 11, Culture and Communications Minister Nathalie Roy issued a statement designating sugaring time as an intangible element of Québec culture under the Loi sur le patrimoine culturel. In fact, QMSP requested such an official designation in 2015 from the minister of the day. “There is no question that the people of Québec feel a deep affection for maple producers and their products. These last few weeks have seen a huge surge of support for maple producers and sugar shacks,” according to QMSP President Serge Beaulieu. “The maple industry is also important to our economy, with 11,300 producers providing more than 10,000 full-time jobs and contributing $800 Million to Canada’s gross domestic product.”

This official designation recognizes a centuries-long tradition in Québec. It continues in the hard work of women and men today and into the future, creating new memories while honouring our history. It is indeed a culture heritage that we all share.

 

About Québec Maple Syrup Producers and the Érable du Québec brand

The mission of Québec Maple Syrup Producers (QMSP) is to promote the interests of Québec maple producers and to develop the production and sales of Québec maple products to their full potential, while respecting the principles of sustainable development. We represent 11,300 maple producers and 7,400 enterprises, whose quality work has led Québec to provide an annual average of 72% of the world’s maple syrup supply. QMSP proudly promotes the Érable du Québec brand and coordinates the marketing and promotion of Canadian maple products abroad (Maple from Canada) on behalf of the Canadian maple industry. QMSP also leads and directs the activities of the International Maple Research and Innovation Network.

ppaq.ca – @AcericoleQc

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Interview Requests:
Hélène Normandin
Director of Corporate Communications
Québec Maple Syrup Producers
514-603-0728
[email protected]