The economic weight of the agri-food sector in North America
In North America, the agri-food sector stands out as one of the major pillars of the economy. It is not limited to agricultural production, but encompasses the entire value chain: processing, distribution, food service, and retail.
A structuring economic driver
In the United States, this industry represents a considerable weight. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the overall contribution of the American food system exceeds $1.5 trillion, or approximately 5% of GDP. This figure illustrates the structuring impact of the sector at a national level.
In Canada, the dynamic is comparable. According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the agri-food sector generates nearly 150 billion Canadian dollars and represents around 7% of GDP.
A significant contribution to employment
Beyond its contribution to GDP, the agri-food sector plays a key role in the labor market.
In the United States, the food system accounts for more than 20 million jobs, or approximately 10% of total employment. This includes all functions, from agricultural production to processing roles, as well as distribution and food service.
In Canada, the sector represents more than 2.3 million jobs, making it the largest manufacturing sector in terms of workforce.
This employment density highlights the cross-functional nature of the industry, which supports all territories and economic ecosystems.
A leading export sector
North America is also a major player in international markets.
The United States ranks among the world’s leading exporters of agricultural and agri-food products. In 2025, U.S. agricultural exports exceed 170 billion US dollars, driven by strong sectors (grains, meat, processed products).
Canada, for its part, also shows a strong export orientation. The country exports more than 100 billion Canadian dollars in agricultural and agri-food products each year, particularly to the United States, Asia, and Europe.
An industry at the core of North American trade
The strength of the agri-food sector in North America is partly based on close trade integration between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This dynamic is governed by the USMCA (United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement), which structures and facilitates trade, particularly for agricultural and agri-food products.
Trade flows between these countries are particularly strong. For example, the United States is by far Canada’s leading trading partner, with three-quarters of its merchandise exports destined for the United States.
This integration enhances trade fluidity and strengthens North America’s position as a global agri-food hub.
Sources:
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Ag and Food Sectors and the Economy”. ers.usda.gov
- Government of Canada, “Agriculture and Agri-food Canada”. agriculture.canada.ca
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Agriculture and its related industries provide 10.4 percent of U.S. employment”. ers.usda.gov
- Office of the United States trade representative, “United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement”. ustr.gov
- Government of Canada, “Minister of International Trade – Briefing book”. international.gc.ca
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