The 10th annual “Feeding the Economy” report, released on May 7, highlights the significant contribution of Virginia’s farmers, foresters, and agribusiness operators to both state and national economies.
The report underscores why agriculture remains a key part of economic stability in Virginia and across the United States. The food and agriculture sector generates more than $10.4 trillion in economic value nationwide—nearly one-fifth of the U.S. economy—and supports almost 49 million jobs.
Daniel Munch, an economist with American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), said, “The interesting piece here is where those jobs are. Less than 2% are on the farm, but when you add food manufacturing, wholesale and retail, that adds another 24 million jobs, or about 15% of the workforce.” The report also notes that California leads nationally with over $1.2 trillion in output from food and agriculture industries.
In Virginia specifically, these industries contribute $203 billion in output while supporting 1.1 million jobs and generating $59 billion in wages. They also account for $2.7 billion in exports and over $26 billion in business taxes collected annually. Lexington stands out as leading among Virginia localities with a total sector output of $21.8 billion.
Tony Banks, senior assistant director of agriculture at Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, said: “This report is a reminder that agriculture’s impact reaches far beyond the farm gate… The farm and forestry economy supports jobs, wages and commerce in every corner of the commonwealth.” Munch added that shifts in production due to cost or regulatory pressures could move this economic activity overseas: “So it’s not just about the food supply—it’s about all these other jobs, tax revenue and economic commerce that supports industries across every corner of every state.”
Virginia Farm Bureau Foundation AGPAC plays a role by relying on an annual membership fee for funding; promoting agricultural prosperity; focusing on enhancing member success through resources; extending operations statewide; advocating for agriculture at the General Assembly; and partnering with companies like Case IH and John Deere to offer equipment savings—all according to the official website.
Further information including national-, state-, or county-level data can be found at feedingtheeconomy.com.
