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2019 data shows growth in BC farming

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 11:54 PDT, Tue July 14, 2020

Last year’s farm sales numbers show a solid foundation for economic recovery, according to data released.

The new information comes from the BC farm cash receipts—which track revenues from sale of agricultural commodities, program payments from government agencies and payments from private crop and livestock insurance programs.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for farmers, but last year the sector grew with a record $3.9 billion in sales. This represents an increase of more than 13 per cent, or $462 million more, from 2018.

“COVID-19 has opened our eyes to the importance of our province’s self-sufficiency,” said Agriculture Minister Lana Popham. “I urge everyone to continue to show their appreciation for our farmers and support our local food system by making a special effort to Buy BC.”

Areas of growth included a close to $300-million increase in cannabis sales, along with a $47-million increase in dairy sales, a $25-million increase in beef sales and a $17.5-million increase in field vegetable sales. 

More BC farm workers are needed to ensure BC’s agriculture sector remains strong and well positioned to provide the fresh, local food that people need, through a healthy, robust food system. In every region, farmers and producers play a crucial role in contributing to both the local economy and the overall provincial economy.

“Connecting more British Columbians to agriculture jobs and careers is more important than ever as we work to restart the economy and keep this momentum going,” Popham said. “We are working together with industry as we focus on restarting our farming sector.”


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