Study Shows More than 90,000 Jobs in Ontario Thanks to Grain Farming

Guelph, ON – – Grain Farmers of Ontario, the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean and wheat farmers, today unveils new numbers showcasing the economic impact of grain farming in Ontario, including growth in jobs, economic output, and government revenue contributions.

A recent study by MNP, spearheaded by Grain Farmers of Ontario, shows clearly that Ontario grain farming continues to grow in its economic value to Ontario and Canada through job creation, a foundational contribution to a thriving, stable and necessary value chain for the province’s economy.

The study highlights that Ontario grain farming is a positive force for the provincial and national economy with:

• More than 90,000 jobs created from grain farming
• A 60 per cent increase in economic output since 2010  – now valued at $27 billion
• More than $2 billion in government revenue generated – a 64 percent growth

“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. 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,” said Brendan Byrne, Chair, Grain Farmers of Ontario.

“I know that our partners in government see these numbers and value farming and its contribution to the success of our province, and I look forward to working with them further,” Byrne continued.

The report outlines the importance of grains and oilseeds in the value chain, starting with inputs such as fertilizer, pesticides, materials and equipment, and repair and maintenance services.