According to information from Farm Credit Canada (FCC) and Statistics Canada, the potential for Indigenous people in Canada's agriculture sector is vast, yet largely untapped. Despite Indigenous communities having a profound agricultural heritage, their current representation in farming is minimal.
With more than 1.8 million people identifying as Indigenous, making up 5% of Canada's total population, their increased involvement in agriculture could significantly boost the national GDP by $1.5 billion.
Statistics reveal that Indigenous farmers constitute only 2.1% of all farm operators in Canada, even though there has been a 5% increase in participation since the last census. Predominantly located in the western provinces, these farmers are primarily engaged in sectors like oilseeds and grains, vegetables, fruits, and other crops, including greenhouse production, as well as beef cattle ranching and farming.
However, economic disparities remain stark, with Indigenous farm operators earning significantly less than their non-Indigenous counterparts—a median farm operating revenue of $25,960 compared to $73,440 in 2020. This highlights a pressing need for equitable support and access to resources.
The potential benefits of growing Indigenous representation and revenue in agriculture are extensive. It would enhance food security, promote sustainable farming practices, and enrich Canada’s agricultural diversity. Achieving these goals requires collaborative efforts from government bodies, Indigenous communities, and the private sector to overcome barriers and foster an inclusive agricultural sector.
This concerted effort towards increasing Indigenous participation in agriculture represents an opportunity to quadruple Indigenous agriculture GDP, offering a significant boost to Canada's primary agriculture GDP by $1.5 billion. Such progress would not only strengthen the economic resilience of Indigenous populations but also contribute to Canada’s overall economic well-being and sustainability.