Saskatchewan exports higher in 2024 than 2023: STEP report

2024 was the third-highest year for exports for Saskatchewan, according to the annual State of Trade report from the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP).

Total value of exports last year reached $45.4 billion. Uranium had the most growth of 50 per cent to $2.8 billion, surpassing the province’s Saskatchewan Growth Plan target of $2 billion.

Potash exports were 22.8 million metric tonnes, a new record. Exports of canola seed and canola meal also saw year-over-year increases with canola seed up 25% and canola meal exports up 14%.

Other top export products include crude petroleum oil, wheat, lentils and dried peas.

The report also notes goods from Saskatchewan reached 161 countries with India, the U.S., and China as the top markets.

“Saskatchewan is providing much needed certainty as we move through a time of global trade shifts,” Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said in a news release. “Our exporters, manufacturers, and producers remain suppliers of choice as we bring food and energy security to countries around the world. This creates jobs, economic opportunities and a high standard of living for all who call our province home.”

“Amid the unprecedented trade uncertainties in 2024, Saskatchewan demonstrated resilience and growth across key sectors, with many major commodities maintaining or increasing their volumes,” STEP Interim CEO Angela Krauss said. “The province’s export foundation remains strong, and we are committed to diversifying our markets and strengthening essential trade relationships.”

The provincial government mentioned Statistics Canada’s latest GDP numbers, which show Saskatchewan’s real GDP increased to $80.5 billion in 2024, up $2.6 billion from 2023, placing it second in Canada for real GDP growth and above the national average of 1.6%.

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