WASHINGTON—When dishing about the American agricultural economy, Virginia’s farmers, foresters and agribusiness operators are serving up extra helpings of industry impact that sustain the nation.

The 10th annual “Feeding the Economy” report demonstrates strength and resilience of the American food and agriculture industry amid ongoing economic pressures.

Sponsored in-part by American Farm Bureau Federation, the 2026 report confirms food and agriculture industries remain a cornerstone of the U.S. economy, generating more than $10.4 trillion in economic value—representing nearly 20% of the overall national economy. The sector supports nearly 49 million related jobs, or roughly 30% of total U.S. employment.

“The interesting piece here is where those jobs are,” said Daniel Munch, AFBF economist. “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.”

These figures mark an increase of nearly $894 billion year-over-year, reflecting growth across the agricultural value chain amid ongoing inflation pressures, a challenging farm economy and an uncertain global trade environment.

Nationwide, California leads with more than $1.2 trillion in food and agriculture output.

In Virginia, the direct and indirect economic impact of food and agriculture industries boasts a $203 billion output, including 1.1 million jobs and $59 billion in wages. These industries bring in $2.7 billion in exports and generate over $26 billion in business taxes.

In the commonwealth, the city of Lexington leads in total output among the state’s food and farm sectors, accounting for $21.8 billion.

“This report is a reminder that agriculture’s impact reaches far beyond the farm gate,” said Tony Banks, senior assistant director of agriculture, development and innovation at Virginia Farm Bureau Federation. “The farm and forestry economy supports jobs, wages and commerce in every corner of the commonwealth.”

With the overall farm economy struggling, Munch said it’s vital to highlight the broad economic importance of agriculture in America. Economic benefits like jobs, wages and tax revenue are tied to production centers.

“If production shifts overseas due to cost pressures, regulatory burdens or competitive challenges, that economic activity moves with it,” he said. “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.”

Visit feedingtheeconomy.com to see more national, state and county-level economic data on food and agriculture sectors.

Media: Contact Banks at 804-290-1114; or Bailey Corwine, AFBF communications, at 202-406-3643.