The second annual Food Fuel Fertilizer Global Summit in Regina, organized by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, began with Premier Scott Moe discussing the province’s trade and export efforts. Moe highlighted Saskatchewan’s significant role in global trade, with 40% of all trade exports going to India originating from the province. He emphasized the importance of bringing together export leadership with the global investment market to benefit Saskatchewan’s economy. Prabha Ramaswamy, the CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, expressed her belief that Saskatchewan has a leading role to play in global food and energy security.
Addressing the importance of sustainable energy and products, Moe highlighted Saskatchewan’s provision of some of the most sustainable products in the world. He also touched on the challenges faced from the federal government in Ottawa, with former Prime Minister Stephen Harper present at the summit. Moe humorously mentioned that he doesn’t wake up each day thinking about picking a fight with the federal government, indicating a desire for a more collaborative working relationship. Discussions at the summit also focused on advancing small modular reactors (SMR), with Estevan likely being named as the location for Saskatchewan’s first SMR.
The Global Summit provided an opportunity to showcase the opportunities available in Saskatchewan and the province’s potential in the global food and energy markets. Premier Moe stressed the significance of export value as the source of wealth in communities and the province as a whole. The international missions that Saskatchewan has undertaken, such as participating in COP 28 in Dubai, have been paying dividends for the province. With a focus on sustainable products and energy, Saskatchewan aims to continue leading in global food and energy security, leveraging its resources to benefit the economy and society.
The summit also touched on the continued advancements in the area of SMRs, with Estevan likely being chosen as the location for Saskatchewan’s first SMR. Recent agreements with Alberta and joining the CANDU Owners Group signify a strategic move towards nuclear power generation in the province. Despite challenges from Ottawa, Saskatchewan remains focused on collaborative efforts to address economic and energy needs, as highlighted through discussions at the summit. The potential for growth and innovation in the province’s energy sector is a key focus, with a vision towards sustainable practices and products driving the agenda at the Global Summit.
