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Canada’s Fresh Produce Sector Relies on Seasonal and International Workers
The Canadian fresh fruit and vegetable sector depends on thousands of skilled seasonal workers to plant, harvest, and pack produce each year. These jobs are often located in rural communities, making it difficult to hire domestic workers. Programs such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) have become essential to sustaining production and ensuring Canadians have access to fresh, healthy food.
Because of the seasonal and labour-intensive nature of many growing operations, Canadian horticulture relies more heavily on international workers than other agricultural sectors.
Driving Long-Term Workforce Solutions
Bridging the labour gap is critical to ensuring the success of the Canadian fresh produce industry.
While CPMA welcomes government initiatives such as the Recognized Employer Pilot, continued action is needed to address long-term shortages impacting productivity, profitability, and innovation across the supply chain.
In 2025, CPMA continues to advocate for an effective National Agricultural Labour Strategy that takes a total supply chain approach to recruitment and retention, and to engage with the federal government as it develops a New Foreign Labour Program for Agriculture and Fish Processing.
Workforce Needs in the Produce Supply Chain (2021 Findings)
This CPMA report, based on a national member survey, identified widespread workforce shortages impacting productivity, profitability, and business growth across the produce supply chain. Published in 2021, its findings remain relevant as Canada’s labour challenges persist.
Get Involved
CPMA continues to collaborate with government and industry partners to shape effective workforce policies. Members can access labour resources, participate in consultations, and share on-the-ground insights through our committees and advocacy network.