Message from the Minister of Trade and Export Development, Jeremy Harrison

On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I am pleased to have this opportunity in PotashWorks magazine to tell you about how important potash continues to be for Saskatchewan’s success.

Saskatchewan has the world’s largest potash industry, accounting for approximately 30 per cent of global production. It was Saskatchewan’s top export in 2021, with sales reaching a record $7.6 billion. The potash industry provides good jobs to 5,000 people in our province.

Over the last 15 years, the potash industry has committed approximately $30 billion of investment for new mines and expansions.

In response to the growing demand and escalating concern around global food security, Saskatchewan's potash sector has ramped up production. Saskatchewan is positioning itself to fill the market gaps left as a result of the sanctions placed on Russia and Belarus.

Global interest in Saskatchewan is at an all-time high as countries look to us as an ethical and reliable producer for their resource needs. We are proud of our world-class potash sector for stepping up to meet growing global demand for decades to come.

The Mosaic Company, K+S Potash Canada, and Nutrien Ltd. have all announced planned potash production increases at their Saskatchewan facilities in response to global supply uncertainty, while BHP is looking to accelerate the timeframe for the construction of its $12 billion Jansen project. Several other companies also have new potash mine projects at varying stages of development. Given our substantial potash reserves, the sector will continue to drive investment, create new jobs, and bring opportunity to the people of Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan has worked diligently in the past several years to create one of the most competitive business environments in North America with competitive taxes and incentives and a responsive government.

We have opened eight international trade and investment offices in London, Dubai, Mexico City, Ho Chi Minh City, Japan, India, Singapore, and China. These offices are allowing us to develop established potash markets while also creating new opportunities for potash exporters in other countries.

As global investors focus on sustainable investments, our potash industry is delivering. Saskatchewan producers are taking steps to minimize environmental impacts and reduce water usage. Our potash is produced using 50 per cent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than potash produced in countries we compete against.

Saskatchewan has been in the potash business for 60 years. I am confident this key sector will continue to succeed for many more years to come, creating jobs, investment, and exciting opportunities for workers, businesses, and communities right across our great province.

In closing, I’d like to thank everyone in the potash industry for all their hard work and contributions to the growth of Saskatchewan’s economy. s