Truro, NS – Today, on Canada’s Agriculture Day – a new Economic Impact Study was released by the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture (NSFA), in partnership with the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture (NSDA). This study highlights agriculture as a significant, viable, and growing contributor to Nova Scotia’s economy, while identifying clear opportunities to strengthen long term growth and competitiveness.
According to the study, agriculture is a major part of Nova Scotia’s economy, contributing $906 million, supporting nearly 50,000 people, and helping drive a broader agri-food sector worth over $7 billion globally.
“This study shows what farmers already know: agriculture matters to Nova Scotia, it matters to the economy. Even as many farms face ongoing challenges, the study points to an industry that has the capacity to grow with the right supports in place,” said Alicia King, President of the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture. “It also gives us a baseline to inform future work between industry and government”.
Jointly funded by the NSFA and the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture, the study offers an updated, evidence-based look at the agriculture industry and will help inform future policy, program, and investment decisions. It also signals the next phase of collaboration between industry and government to develop a focused action plan.
Agriculture is vital to Nova Scotia’s economy and communities. Local farms help strengthen food security, keep dollars circulating within the provincial economy, and reduce reliance on imported food and products, particularly during times of disruption. At the same time, a thriving agriculture industry supports long-term economic and community sustainability, providing local employment, stabilizing rural communities, and helping ensure farmland remains in production for future generations.
“For farmers, processors, and all businesses along the supply chain, this information matters. It clearly shows agriculture’s contribution to the provincial economy and highlights opportunities to grow and strengthen the sector for the future, said Agriculture Minister Greg Morrow. “We will continue to work with the Federation and industry on practical solutions that support immediate needs and long‑term growth.”
Key findings include:
- Nova Scotia farms generate $1.45 billion in annual revenue.
- Agriculture contributes $906 million to the provincial economy, with additional economic activity generated across the broader supply chain. Approximately 50,000 Nova Scotians earn at least part of their income from farming and related activities.
- Core commodities such as dairy, poultry, eggs, apples, berries, and vegetables provide a strong and stable foundation for growth.
- The study identifies several opportunities to strengthen agriculture, including: Growing food processing and value-added activity in Nova Scotia.
- Supporting investments in new technologies, equipment, and tools that help farmers work more efficiently and stay competitive.
- Improving participation in programs that help manage risk and build resilience.
- Designing policies and investments that reflect the unique strengths of Nova Scotia’s agricultural regions.
The Economic Impact Study was informed by industry and policy expertise from the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture and the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture. Economic analysis was led by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Agriculture with project management support from Barrington Consulting Group.
The full summary and comprehensive reports are available at: nsfa-fane.ca/economicimpact
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Supplemental Quotes
“This study confirms what the Faculty of Agriculture and Dalhousie University has long known that agriculture is a cornerstone of our economy and our communities. By working closely with farmers and industry partners, we can build on this momentum through research, innovation, and capacity building to ensure a resilient agricultural sector for generations to come.”
- Dr. Heather Bruce, Dean, Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture
Media Contact:
Katherine Tuttle, Communications Manager
Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture
(902) 890-1891 comms@nsfa-fane.ca