With trading and tariff threats facing Canada, a minister from Saskatchewan is working abroad to develop other trade partners.
Agriculture minister Daryl Harrison is leading a trade mission to India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from Feb. 11-19. He will meet with business groups, buyers and investors. Meanwhile, he will also attend the Pulses Conclave in Delhi and the Gulfood Exhibition in Dubai.
“The United Arab Emirates and India are important export markets for Saskatchewan, especially in the pulse sector,” said Harrison. “We will continue to reinforce our longstanding commitment as a reliable and trustworthy supplier of high-quality agricultural products.”
Saskatchewan was the top lentils and dry peas supplier to India and the UAE in 2024. Furthermore, the province provided 70 per cent of the UAE’s lentil imports and 54 per cent of its dry pea imports. Saskatchewan also supplied 46 per cent of India’s lentil imports and 43 per cent of its dry pea imports.
India was Saskatchewan’s third-largest agri-food export market. The UAE ranked ninth. India is also the world’s largest consumer of pulses.
Mission purpose:
Harrison’s mission will focus on promoting the sustainability of Saskatchewan’s crops. Additionally, he will also strengthen trade, research and investment ties with key partners. The mission will help Saskatchewan businesses expand relationships with stakeholders in both countries.
Harrison will start his trip in Delhi, where he will speak at the Pulses Conclave. This event connects international pulse suppliers with Indian buyers and processors. Additionally, he will also meet with the Consul Generals of Canada to India and the UAE.
In Dubai, Harrison will attend the Gulfood 2025 trade show. The event attracts 5,500 exhibitors from 129 countries. He will also meet with industry associations and companies in the oilseed, wheat, pulse and ingredient sectors.
Saskatchewan has nine international trade offices, including locations in India and the UAE. These offices work to grow Saskatchewan’s exports, attract investment and strengthen international relationships.
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