Canada's Urgent Farm Labor Needs

Labor shortages in Canada’s farming industry could grow to 114,000 by 2025 if the current way of bringing in foreign workers continues.

That is the opinion of two key farming industry figures, who have called for the creation of an immigration program specifically for agricultural workers.
Mark Wales and Mark Chambers, co-chairs of the Agriculture and Agri-Food Labour Task Force, say that the current industry job vacancy rate of 7 per cent translates to $1.5 billion in lost sales.

Canada’s Farming Industry in Numbers

• Farming and processing contribute $100 billion and almost 7 per cent to Canada’s GDP.
• Agriculture feeds 37 million Canadians.
• Current labour force gap: 60,000 workers.
• Projected 2025 gap: 114,000 workers.
• 7 per cent vacancy rate costs $1.5 billion in lost sales.
• $25 an hour to drive a combine in Saskatchewan.
• Seasonal workers are 53 per cent of farming workforce.
• International workers are 12 per cent of farming workforce.

PATHWAY FOR PERMANENT RESIDENT FOR FARMING

Pathways to permanent residence

• The Government of Canada recognizes the need for skilled labor to support business growth, exports, and job creation, with immigration playing a crucial role in meeting these needs.
• Labor shortages in the agriculture sector have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting the government to respond with increased levels of permanent immigration and options for hiring temporary workers.
• Efforts are being made to help farmers attract and retain enough workers to ensure a stable food supply for Canadians.
• The Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces and territories to nominate immigrants who meet local labor market needs, including in the agricultural sector.
• The Agri-Food Pilot, launched in May 2020, aims to attract and retain experienced workers in specific agri-food industries by providing them with a pathway to permanent residency.
• Despite the pandemic, the government remains committed to supporting the agri-food sector and ensuring a stable workforce through innovative immigration programs