The tenth annual “Feeding the Economy” Report, a comprehensive study analyzing the economic contributions of the entire U.S. food and agriculture supply chain, was released today. The report, of which AEM is a sponsoring organization, highlights the broad impact of the food and agriculture value chain, from farms and ranches to distribution and equipment manufacturing.
"U.S. equipment manufacturers, which support 2.2 million jobs and contribute $415 billion annually to U.S. GDP, are proud to play a role in feeding the nation and the world,” said AEM Senior Vice President, Industries Sectors and Product Leadership Curt Blades. “The 2026 Feeding the Economy report highlights the importance of the food and agriculture value chain to the U.S. economy and the need for comprehensive policies to support bolster the farm economy. When farmers and ranchers succeed, America succeeds.”
According to the report, America’s food and agriculture industries generate more than $10.4 trillion in economic activity, representing nearly 20% of the U.S. economy, and supporting 48.7 million jobs nationwide. The sector also provides more than $3 trillion in wages and contributes $1.35 trillion in federal, state, and local taxes.
The tenth edition of the report highlights key findings including:
- The U.S. food and agriculture industries support nearly 49 million workers – about 1 in 5 American jobs.
- Direct employment in the sector has grown 6.5% over the last decade.
- Food and agriculture employment generates more than $3 trillion in wages for American workers.
- America’s food and agriculture sectors are responsible for $1.35 trillion in government tax revenue.
- Exports dropped about $5.4 billion YOY, demonstrating why securing and maintaining strong trade deals is critical for American agriculture.
This report arrives at a critical time for the North American food and agriculture sector, as the industry faces pressure stemming from economic strain inflation, and trade uncertainty. However, the report shows that despite these stressors, the ag industry is still an economic powerhouse, representing nearly 20% of the total U.S. economic output.
About the Feeding the Economy Report
The Feeding the Economy report is an annual study measuring the economic impact of the entire U.S. food and agriculture value chain, including farming, ranching, food manufacturing, processing, distribution, retail, and foodservice.
The report highlights how these industries support jobs, economic growth, and communities across urban, suburban, and rural America.
Read the full report at feedingtheeconomy.com.
