Farm Credit Canada is suggesting farmers keep watch on three key market factors in 2020.

FCC chief agricultural economist, J.P. Gervais, says climate change, protectionism and automation could promote or inhibit farm income growth in the coming year.

He says a new trade deal between the U.S. and China may improve farm income this year compared to 2019.

He adds automation is advancing in the farming and food production sector and may be an important factor in reducing labour shortages on the farm and in food processing.

Gervais says farmers need to take a close look at risk management tools to control market disruptions like weather, protectionism and automation.