2021 A Good Year For Idaho Ag Exports

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Idaho tied an export record in 2021 at $1.02 billion. That figure was up 9% year-over-year, and tied 2014, which was a very impress year for American Ag exports. Sean Ellis with the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation said that figure only takes into account products that leave Idaho, so for example, wheat that’s barged down the Snake River to Portland is not included.

He noted that dairy was the top ag export last year at $194 million. Coming in at #2, live animals, primary cattle, $78 million, up from $58 million a year earlier.

“Almost all of the ag products in Idaho are exported, whether it’s domestically or internationally," noted Ellis. "So, when ag exports are up it’s a great sign for overall health of Idaho’s agricultural industry.”

Ellis added wheat and potato exports were also very strong in 2021. And all of this comes as the U.S. farm economy faced stiff headwinds last year.

“That’s despite the fact that the U.S. dollar strengthened.  We also hit the record despite supply chain issues.”

Ellis said had it not been for those two main challenges, he’s confident total exports would have been much higher.

Canada was the main destination for Idaho ag products last year, reaching $322 million, a year-over-year increase of 24%.

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