The agriculture and agri-food industry contributes over $100 billion annually to Canada’s gross domestic product (GDP). (That’s more than the national GDP of 2/3 of the world’s countries).

Canada is the 5th largest agricultural exporter in the world, and the agriculture and agri-food industry employs 2.2 million Canadians (that’s 1 in 8 jobs).

Canada produces about 80% of the world’s maple syrup, we are the world’s largest exporter of flaxseed, canola, pulses and durum wheat and we’re one of the largest producers of flaxseed, canola, pulses and durum wheat. 



Agriculture’s hidden marvels

Did you know the airbag in your car contains cornstarch? That diabetic test strips contain an enzyme found in horseradish? Or that some shampoo and skin care products contain oats?

Agriculture also has a major impact on the economy. Canola - now the oil of choice for millions around the world - was developed by Canadian scientists and planted by Canadian farmers. In 2013, Canada contributed 33% to global canola exports.

There are approximately 4 million beef cattle in Canada. In addition, roughly 26 million pigs are raised in Canada each year, making us the world’s third-largest exporter of pork products.

Fruit farming began sometime between 6000 and 3000 B.C. Figs were one of the first cultivated fruit crops.

In 1830, it took about 250 to 300 labor hours to produce 100 bushels (5 acres) of wheat. In 1975, it took just 3¾ hours. 

Agriculture and Agri-food Production in Atlantic Canada

Some intriguing facts about the agriculture and agri-food industry in Atlantic Canada.

- The world’s largest fruit farm
- The world’s largest supplier of frozen wild blueberries
- North America’s largest carrot processor

Source:
UN Comtrade, bewerking LEI Sources:
http://www.agr.gc.ca/
http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/
http://facts.randomhistory.com/ UN Comtrade, bewerking LEI