Agricultural equipment manufacturing is a unique and growing industry in Canada, with revenues reaching just over $8 billion per year. In Canada, agricultural equipment manufacturing has evolved as a distinct sector of innovation and economic activity relative to other manufacturing sectors.
Innovating by Meeting Needs
Some of the world’s most innovative agricultural equipment has been and continues to be developed and made in Canada. Many agricultural equipment manufacturers started business as farmers in or in rural communities adjacent to farms. They produced agricultural equipment that worked for the unique growing conditions in the region and the farmers working that land.
In this way, Canadian agricultural equipment manufacturers emerged as high-quality producers of specialized equipment. Today, this sector of the agricultural equipment manufacturing industry is known as the “shortline” sector because of the manufacturers specialized equipment and expertise.
Providing Innovative Equipment for Farmers
Agricultural equipment manufacturers value their relationships with farmers, who give vital input about the equipment’s performance as well as their own needs. Farm shows offer an important opportunity to develop those relationships, allowing agricultural equipment manufacturers, the dealers who sell their equipment and the farmers who buy it to share crucial information. This exchange of information fuels innovation, resulting in better equipment that is more efficient and effective.
Working in Canada and Around the World
Given the harsh growing conditions in Canada, equipment that can withstand our extreme temperatures and conditions is well-positioned to succeed in other parts of the world. In 2023 alone, Canadian manufacturers exported more than $4.09 billion (CAD) in agricultural equipment to 148 countries around the globe.
Much of the international trade is generated through relationships with the United States, Australia, Russia, Kazakhstan and Germany. Shipping equipment to these countries means manufacturers must understand and meet international standards and regulations.
Helping Farmers Feed the World
Canadian agricultural equipment manufacturers understand the challenges and practices of farmers not just in Canada but around the globe. They know that local culture and climate, as well as government policies and economic realities, impact farmers differently across geographies.
By meeting the needs of the farmers, Canada’s agricultural equipment manufacturers are helping feed the world.