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By Veronica Beltran

B.C. farming

2019 shows increase sales for B.C. farmers, paving way to strong recovery post COVID-19

Jul 14, 2020 | 11:10 AM

VICTORIA—According to the Ministry of Agriculture farm-sales for 2019 depict a solid foundation to helping build a strong path to economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2019 B.C. farm cash receipts show that the sector is growing with a record $3.9 billion in sales; a more than 13 per cent increase than in 2018.

“For the past three years, our government has been focused on helping farmers farm and strengthening food security. We know the pandemic has impacted farmers greatly this year, but the farming sector’s record economic growth in 2019 sets the sector up for a strong recovery.”— Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture

Areas that saw growth included cannabis sales with a $300-million increase, $47-million increase in dairy sales, a $25-million increase in beef sales and a $17.5-million increase in field vegetable sales.

“COVID-19 has opened our eyes to the importance of our province’s self-sufficiency. 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,” adds Popham. The Province says that more B.C. farm workers are needed to ensure that the province’s agriculture sector remains strong and able to provide the fresh food British Columbians need.

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“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.”— Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture

“We are working together with industry as we focus on restarting our farming sector,” said Popham.

The Province launched the B.C. Farm, Fish and Food Job Connector in May along with a digital campaign to promote jobs in the farm sector.