Sask. government working with other provinces to strengthen trade

The Government of Saskatchewan is working with other provinces to improve cross-Canada trade.

On Tuesday, Premier Scott Moe signed an agreement with Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, aiming to co-ordinate the transport and export of oil, gas and minerals from western Canada to refineries, seaports and storage facilities both inside and outside of the country.

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The memorandum of understanding establishes a framework for the exploration of new pipeline and rail corridors, as well as expanding hubs for critical minerals in order to create new ways for the products to reach markets.

“This agreement commits our provinces to work together to unlock new markets, shore up our supply chains from mine to port and advocate for the federal reforms our industry needs,” Moe said in a statement.

“By advancing pipelines, rail connections and critical-mineral processing capacity, we are safeguarding thousands of jobs, strengthening our energy security and fostering sustainable growth.”

Ford added that the world is struggling under the weight of “unfair tariffs” from U.S. President Donald Trump, meaning it is more important than ever for Canada to ensure its economy is resilient and self reliant.

“This agreement sends a clear message: Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan are ready to get shovels in the ground and move forward on projects that will secure our long-term prosperity,” Ford said.

Smith said the agreement shows that the three provinces are standing up for our oil and gas sector by ensuring the products can reach their end markets.

“This agreement is about building a stronger, more connected Canada, one project at a time,” the Alberta premier added.

Work underway to establish northern trade corridor through Churchill

The provincial government also announced on Tuesday an agreement with Manitoba and the Arctic Gateway Group – which owns and operates the Port of Churchill – in an effort to strengthen trade through the port.

The provincial government said the agreement aims to strengthen supply chains, give a boost to regional economies and enhance market access while reducing both costs and emissions.

“Streamlining access to ports, such as Churchill will allow our goods better access to new and emerging international markets,” Moe explained in a statement.

The memorandum of understanding signed on Tuesday was designed to connect producers, processors, industries and exporters to the Arctic Trade Corridor, while also aiming to secure more infrastructure funding and regulatory support from Ottawa in order to help streamline trade even further.

“Churchill presents huge opportunities when it comes to mining, agriculture and energy,” said Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew.

“Through this agreement with AGG and Saskatchewan, we are going to unlock new opportunities for businesses in Manitoba and Saskatchewan to get their goods to market.”

Chris Avery, CEO of the Arctic Gateway Group, said the joint commitment is “a clear signal” that the Arctic Trade Corridor will play a large role in the future of trade and transportation in Canada.

“As an established, efficient link to world markets, with economic reconciliation built into everything we do, the Port of Churchill is actively shipping, open for business, and ready to deliver for prairie producers and Canadian exports – while returning the benefits to AGG’s Indigenous and northern ownership communities,” Avery said.