- Western Australia's primary industries exports increase by more than 50 per cent in the four years to 2023-2024
- Primary industries WA's second largest export industry
- Cook Government diversifying the economy so it remains the strongest in the nation
Western Australia's primary industries are being celebrated on National Agriculture Day, showcasing the sector's important contribution to putting food on the table and boosting the State's economy.
Horticulture, livestock, fisheries and grains businesses across the State produce high-quality, nutritious food and fibre products enjoyed by all Western Australians and consumers around the world.
National Agriculture Day recognises the work of all farmers and fishers who grow fresh produce across the State.
The primary industries sector's contribution to the WA economy continues to grow, with the gross value of production of WA's agrifood, fibre, forestry and fisheries industries increasing from about $10 billion in 2019-2020 to more than $11 billion in 2023-2024, following exceptional growing seasons in 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 resulting in record grain crops.
Agriculture is WA's second largest export industry - behind the resources sector - with products destined for more than 120 international markets.
WA was the nation's biggest cereals exporter in 2023-2024 accounting for more than 50 per cent of the nation's exports, worth more than $7 billion.
Total WA primary industries exports increased by more than 50 per cent to just over $13 billion in the four years to 2023-2024, led by strong demand for cereals, canola, and meat and livestock.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"WA's diverse primary industries are key to the State's economic powerhouse, delivering sustainably produced, premium food and fibre products to feed local, national and economic demand.
"Cook Government initiatives and investments are helping our agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture and food businesses to overcome barriers to growth, achieve their potential and remain internationally competitive.
"These latest economic statistics are also a testament to the work of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, which plays an integral role supporting these industries through research, development and a range of initiatives to protect and grow the sector.
"The sector is in a strong position to build on its enviable reputation as a reliable supplier of clean, safe and high-quality food to overseas markets, as we celebrate our primary industries' success on National Agriculture Day 2025."
