Salmon farming is a vital part of the health of BC’s coastal communities, which is remarkable considering that it is relatively new in this province. Our industry employs over 6,000 people in direct and indirect jobs, and contributes more than $800 million annually to the provincial economy. Today, we produce about 75,000 metric tonnes per year, making farm-raised salmon BC's largest agricultural export. Salmon farms operate according to very high and exacting standards. In fact, aquaculture is the most strictly regulated agricultural industry in the province.