By Carol Baldwin, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter with the Wakaw Recorder
The government released information today indicating that data from the Ministry of Trade and Export Development, along with insights from the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP), reveal a significant trend in 2024: global demand for Saskatchewan’s goods has increased, leading to $45.3 billion in international shipments.
Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding stated, “Saskatchewan’s economy is built on exports; in fact, we export 70 percent of what we produce. These numbers are a sign of a robust economy that is delivering for our citizens, with more capital flowing into the province thanks to our export sectors, we are able to focus on providing the infrastructure and services to Saskatchewan people that they rely on.”
“Saskatchewan exporters continue to demonstrate their resilience and global competitiveness,” Chris Lane, President and CEO of STEP, stated, noting the collaboration between industry and government that supports the province’s economic environment.
Saskatchewan is recognized for its reliability in supplying essential minerals and various agricultural products, which has resulted in a 17.3 percent increase in private capital investment, the highest in Canada. This growth aligns with the “Securing the Next Decade of Growth – Saskatchewan’s Investment Attraction Strategy,” which aims to position the province as a viable option for business endeavours.
“Our exporters, manufacturers, and producers have a global reputation for bringing the high-quality food, fuel, fertilizer and critical minerals our growing world needs to ensure food and energy security for generations,” Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said.
In the previous year, Saskatchewan’s per capita export figures reached approximately $36.2 billion, surpassing the national average, contributing to job creation and business opportunities. As of 2024, the province achieved new export milestones, reinforcing its role as a leading global exporter of agricultural products.
Despite challenges in global trade, Saskatchewan’s export performance has reached a notable all-time high of $83.6 billion in 2024. The government emphasizes its aim to strengthen international relations, diversify markets, and promote food and energy security globally, supported by its network of trade and investment offices in nine countries designed to assist in accessing over 160 export markets. These offices exist in China, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, Singapore, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, and Vietnam.