The Province is releasing The Path Forward: A Blueprint for B.C.’s Tree Fruit Industry, which recommends several actions to address the leadership and governance of the sector, enhancing its competitiveness and building on the support provided by the B.C. government.
“B.C.’s tree fruit growers play a key role in our province’s food system and our government is committed to the industry’s lasting prosperity,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries. “The recommendations from this plan provide a clear path on how the sector can change course as we all work together to ensure the economic viability and ongoing legacy of this century-old industry.”
B.C. tree fruit growers have faced some extreme challenges over the past years, including the pandemic and the loss of crops due to weather-related events. There has also been a decrease in acreage and profitability over the last decade.
The stabilization project, led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries in consultation with an external advisory committee made up of key stakeholders, was launched in February 2021. The 19 recommendations in the stabilization plan were built from the extensive feedback received during 30 consultation sessions with more than 165 individuals representing all aspects of the industry, including producers, packers, marketers, retailers, researchers and government.
Moving forward, the ministry and industry will work together toward implementing the recommendations in the report. Progress will be monitored consistently to ensure a solid path forward for the sector.
Quick Facts:
- B.C. growers produce Canada’s largest tree fruit crop.
The B.C. tree sector is primarily located in the Okanagan with approximately 400 commercial growers. - B.C. tree fruit production includes apples, cherries, pears, peaches, apricots, nectarines and plums.
- In 2019, the industry generated farm gate value of $165 million, of which cherries accounted for $86 million and apples $62 million.
- The External Advisory Committee represents key industry stakeholders, including the BC Fruit Growers Association, the BC Cherry Association, the New Tree Fruit Variety Development Council, the Sterile Insect Release Program, the BC Grape Growers’ Association, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
For more information: 
Jill Hunt
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries
Tel.: +1 778 676-4460
Web: gov.bc.ca