Miscellaneous

From seed to table: the technology propelling Canada’s agriculture industry forward

January 15, 2021

The year 2020 was a challenging one for Canada’s economy, with the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting almost every industry. Agriculture and agri-food, however, have experienced notable successes – especially here in Alberta – and significant technological advancements may have played a part.

The Calgary Chamber is exploring how technology is disrupting key industries in our economy through our The Future of Industry event series, and agriculture is first up on January 27, 2021. In advance of that conversation, we dive into the trends that are shaking up everything from the seeds in the field to the food on your table.

Reliable and resilient: Agriculture’s importance to the Canadian economy

The agriculture and agri-food sector in Canada provides the food we need and enjoy, and has been a critical source of economic growth. In 2018, the industry employed 2.3 million Canadians, generated 7.4% of Canada’s GDP, and provided one in every eight Canadian jobs. Beyond jobs and growth, the industry leads in sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

Early analysis suggests the COVID-19 pandemic has caused several challenges, from changes in consumer buying habits and labour supply to ensuring the stability of transportation networks, logistics, and international trade – and each of these challenges will require new solutions. Based on the innovation we have seen so far, it’s clear the industry is ready to meet this challenge.

The agriculture and agri-food sector displayed resilience, harnessed new opportunities, and emerged through 2020 stronger than it started. Analysis from ATB and Statistics Canada shows that the gross revenue of farm businesses in Alberta rose by 13 per cent in Q3 2020 compared to Q3 2019. These gains occurred across the sector, with wheat, canola, barely, oats, cannabis, lentils, beans, livestock, and livestock products all yielding revenue increases in 2020.