Producers can fully write off some greenhouses
An announcement from the prime minister to help Canadians with affordability included an item for greenhouse growers.
“To lower the cost of food production, we are introducing accelerated immediate expensing for greenhouses,” Prime Minister Carney said on Jan. 26. “This allows growers to fully write off the cost of new greenhouses immediately – freeing up capital so they can invest in modern equipment, expand domestic food production, and grow more food here at home, year-round.”
This measure applies to greenhouses acquired on or after Nov. 4, 2025, and that become available for use before 2030.
The number of greenhouse operations in Canada is growing.
In 2024, Canada had 974 commercial greenhouse vegetable operations, data from Statistics Canada shows.
That’s an increase from 960 in 2023, 930 in 2022, and 892 in 2021.
The value of greenhouse exports is increasing too.
Canada exported more than $1.9 billion of greenhouse vegetables in 2024.
That’s value is up from $1.67 billion in 2023, $1.4 billion in 2022, and $1.3 billion in 2021.
Canada’s greenhouse industry can help the national economy, and minimize domestic food insecurity, if it can address external issues.
“Canada’s greenhouses are well positions to help meet the challenge because of their high land use and input efficiency, potential to shorten supply chains for Canadians, and a strong history of growth and innovation,” an RBC report says. “Doubling down on these achievements over the next decade would require overcoming energy, water, and waste infrastructure challenges, while addressing regulatory constraints, labour shortages, and shortcomings in supply chains.”
Canada’s greenhouse industry appreciates the support from the federal government.
Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada told Farms.com in an email it welcomes investment into the sector and is waiting for clarifying details to ensure the announced measures are targeted, accessible, and deliver for farmers and Canadians.