Liǧʷiłdaxʷ TERRITORY/CAMPBELL RIVER, BC — The B.C. salmon farming sector is already operating in an unprecedented environment of business uncertainty due to current federal decisions actively discouraging technological and job investments. Tariffs will place another substantial and unnecessary burden on Canada’s already threatened salmon farming sector.
Key facts on the impact of U.S. tariffs:
- Approximately 70 percent of B.C. farm-raised salmon annual production goes to American customers,
- A 25 percent tariff would reduce U.S. demand by 32 to 40 percent,
- Drive revenues for B.C. salmon farmers down between $131.5 and $142.4 million per year,
- Result in a $155 to $168 million reduction in GDP, and
- A $68 to $73.6 million drop in incomes earned by Canadian workers, causing
- Losses of between 1,100 and 1,195 jobs.
Farm-raised salmon plays a vital role in Canadian food security and trade, providing 380 million nutritious meals every year and contributing $1.17 billion in annual economic activity while supporting communities and over 4,500 jobs across the country. Ensuring its continued accessibility is not only critical to salmon farmers but also to the broader Canadian economy. Salmon farming relies on an integrated supply chain built on products from Canada and the U.S., from ingredients in salmon feed to food-safe packaging, with many suppliers and services in between.
At a time when food security and economic stability are top priorities, Canada has an opportunity to strengthen its commitment to sustainable, healthy, and locally produced food. We need a rational, evidenced-based policy approach and a clear government signal that salmon farming is a key component of Canada’s agri-food sector. With that, the sector could generate $2.5 billion in economic output, $930 million in GDP, and 9,000 jobs, paying $560 million in wages annually by 2030.
B.C. Salmon farmers continue to work nationally through the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA), the National Seafood Roundtable on Tariffs, and provincially through the B.C. Agriculture Council (BCAC) and the new B.C. Premier’s task force on agriculture and food economy, along with other sector partners, to ensure that government decision-makers fully understand the impacts of trade barriers on salmon farming operations, employees, and communities.
ABOUT THE BC SALMON FARMERS ASSOCIATION
The BC Salmon Farmers Association represents over 60 businesses and organizations throughout the value chain of finfish aquaculture in BC. Our members account for over 95% of the annual provincial harvest of farm-raised salmon in British Columbia.
Farm-raised salmon generates over $1.17 billion for the provincial economy, supporting 4,560 well-paid full-time jobs. Additionally, farm-raised salmon provides a nutritious and sustainably produced protein with a low carbon footprint that contributes to Canada’s food security and Blue Economy.
BC salmon farmers are committed to reconciliation. All farms operating in BC are currently in agreement, negotiation, or established partnerships with First Nations in whose territories we operate. These agreements are founded upon recognizing First Nations’ right to exercise jurisdiction over the land, resources, and waters within their territories.
For more information, visit bcsalmonfarmers.ca.
For a comprehensive scientific summary of salmon farming in BC, read our Modern Science Review.
MEDIA CONTACT
Michelle Franze
Manager of Communications, Partnerships and Community
michelle@bcsalmonfarmers.ca
604-202-4417