Legislative Report
(21 November 2019)

Supporting International Trade Growth

Our province has seen unprecedented growth since 2007 and Saskatchewan’s new Growth Plan sets the stage for a strong, innovative economy that will drive growth over the next decade. The plan includes key goals, such as a growing province of 1.4 million people and a strong economy with 100,000 more jobs by 2030.

Saskatchewan’s plan to grow our exports by 50 per cent and build a stronger economy starts with a stronger international presence.

The Government of Saskatchewan is opening new international trade and investment offices in key markets to increase exports, attract more investment to the province and strengthen relationships with international partners and customers.

Recent trade actions in key markets have made it more important than ever to ensure we have on the ground presence to tell our story. In 2020-21, the Ministry of Trade and Export Development will open offices in Japan, India and Singapore.

Establishing these offices will allow the province to have officials on the ground with a focus on:

• diversifying markets;
• facilitating connections between our businesses and international buyers;
• increasing foreign direct investment;
• establishing ongoing relationships and business partnerships; and
• providing exporters an understanding of the business environment, rules and regulations in these markets.

Our economy and quality of life in Saskatchewan are dependent on trade and, as government, we play a vital role in helping to get our products to international markets. Our people, businesses and industries provide the products a growing world needs with a track record of environmental and economic sustainability. Having Saskatchewan staff in these offices will help ensure we are able to export our products across the globe.

Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison is advocating for trade and improved market access for Saskatchewan exports, and highlighting investment opportunities on a trade mission to India this month. India is the world’s second-most populous country, with rapidly growing needs for food, fuel and fertilizer and Saskatchewan is well-positioned to help meet those needs.

Saskatchewan’s major exports to India have increased in the first eight months of this year compared to 2018, and we know there are further opportunities to improve market access for Saskatchewan products.

Saskatchewan has been one of Canada’s top exporters to India for the past decade, exporting mostly agricultural commodities and mineral products. In 2018, the province exported $629 million in goods to India, including potash, pulse crops, uranium and semi-chemical wood pulp.

The Government of Saskatchewan has also contracted global affairs firm Harper and Associates to support the province’s increased focus on international trade and engagement. Harper and Associates will provide guidance, advice and support to the provincial government on increasing and diversifying our exports, enhancing access to foreign markets for our products and attracting investment to the province. This includes assisting with strategies and planning for international missions.

Saskatchewan exports approximately 67 per cent of the products it produces. Total exports in 2018 were valued at approximately $31 billion. The province’s top exports include oil, potash, agricultural products and uranium.

Growth in exports are good for a growing province. It means new jobs and more opportunities for young people to realize their future here at home, while attracting skilled and entrepreneurial newcomers from around the world.

We want the absolute best quality of life for our province and that’s why, as part of Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan For the Next Decade, we are investing in targets and incentives that will grow our economy and strengthen our families and communities.

Past Legislative Reports