Number and turnover of agricultural enterprises and their personnel

In 2023, there were approximately 119,000 companies operating in rural areas and their number of employees was approximately 246,000. The number of rural enterprises decreased by about one per cent and the number of personnel by about 1.4 per cent from the previous year. About one third of rural enterprises operate in the construction, wholesale and retail trade sectors. In 2023, the number of personnel of small and medium-sized enterprises in rural areas was about 205,000 and that of large enterprises about 41,000. 

The number of rural enterprises is highest in Uusimaa, Varsinais-Suomi and North and South Ostrobothnia. The number of personnel in rural enterprises is highest in Uusimaa, Northern Ostrobothnia and Varsinais-Suomi. 

The combined turnover of rural enterprises grew in rural areas close to cities in 2023, and that of enterprises operating in other rural areas and cities decreased compared to 2022. The total turnover of small and micro enterprises in rural areas grew slightly from the previous year, but that of other enterprises decreased. In 2023, the combined turnover of rural enterprises increased slightly in the ELY areas of Satakunta, Pirkanmaa and Ostrobothnia, while in other areas the turnover decreased from the previous year.

The numbers of enterprises before 2018 are not fully comparable with the later data, because from 2018 onwards the numbers of small enterprises are also included. The impact on turnover and number of employees in enterprises is small.

This indicator measures how the number of personnel has developed in rural enterprises and evaluates the development of employment. The indicator data includes both entrepreneurs and hired employees.

Statistics Finland produces this indicator data.

The indicator will next be updated in spring 2026.