Grain farming in Ontario has a significant and growing economic impact in the province and across the country.
That’s the conclusion of a recent study from business accounting firm MNP prepared for the Grain Farmers of Ontario. The study, titled: Economic Impact Analysis of Grain Farming in Ontario, found that the industry created $27 billion of economic output in 2022, a number that’s increased 60 per cent since 2010.
Grain farming also boosts almost 92,000 full-time equivalent jobs. Overall, the industry is a significant contributor to government revenues, generating more than $2 billion in 2022 government revenue – a 64 per cent increase over the past 12 years.
“Grain farming in Ontario is vital to the economic success of the province. Our industry is a stable source of jobs and economic growth, but farming is also one of the riskiest businesses to run,” says Brendan Byrne, Chair, Grain Farmers of Ontario, which represents 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean and wheat farmers in the province.
Byrne believes the numbers tell an important story and illustrate why it’s important for government to support grain production. “In order to ensure the sustainability of farming and food production, we need to work with government to ensure farmers can survive crises and keep growing food. Farmers also need to be able to take risks and continue to be a leader in adopting new innovation,” he adds.
View the full report here.
