BC salmon farmers raise alarm over fiscal policy and industry phase-out costs.
The British Columbia Salmon Farmers Association (BCSFA) has expressed concern over the Canadian federal government’s fiscal direction and policies, warning that the phase-out of marine net-pen salmon farming in British Columbia by 2029 could carry significant economic and social consequences.
The industry body cited the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland and Canada’s broader economic challenges as further exacerbating fiscal uncertainty, while arguing that the government’s decision to end marine salmon farming represents “political motivations over sound economic policy.”
The BCSFA estimates the phase-out will cost Canadian taxpayers C$9 billion and threatens thousands of jobs in coastal communities and First Nation territories. “This policy ignores the real-world consequences for thousands of workers, First Nation communities, and the broader economy,” the group stated.
BC’s salmon farming sector contributes over C$1.2 billion annually to the provincial economy and directly employs more than 4,500 people. According to the BCSFA, the decision would remove 400 million Canadian-produced portions of salmon from domestic markets annually, raising concerns over food security as food prices are expected to rise between 3% and 5% in 2025.
The association underscored the importance of the sector to Indigenous communities, highlighting that all salmon farms in BC currently operate under agreements, negotiations, or partnerships with First Nations in whose territories they are located.
“The government is pushing forward with policies that could destroy this sector, risking thousands of jobs and removing a crucial source of healthy, affordable food from Canadian tables,” the statement read.
The BCSFA urged the Trudeau government to reconsider its course and work collaboratively with First Nations and coastal communities to prioritise economic stability, job security, and long-term sustainability.
The phase-out of marine net-pen farming follows years of debate over the environmental impact of salmon aquaculture on wild stocks. While the government cites environmental concerns as justification, industry advocates maintain that the decision runs counter to scientific evidence.
The association represents over 60 businesses involved in BC’s finfish aquaculture industry, which accounts for more than 95% of the province’s annual farmed salmon harvest.
