Saskatchewan’s agri-food exports to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reached $322 million between January and October 2024, marking a 19% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Lentils led the way, accounting for $174 million, a 31% year-on-year rise, and representing 54% of the province’s total agri-food exports to the UAE.
Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison highlighted the significance of this growth in a statement. “The growth of agri-food exports to the UAE demonstrates the ongoing success of Saskatchewan’s strategy to strengthen our international agri-food export markets. Saskatchewan producers continue to provide sustainable, high-quality agri-food products to address global food security.”
Other key agri-food exports to the UAE included canola seed, valued at $56 million, and non-durum wheat, at $33 million. Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding attributed this success to Saskatchewan’s robust international trade network, including its UAE office.
“Saskatchewan’s network of International Trade and Investment offices, including our UAE office, are essential for Saskatchewan producers to expand access into new global markets,” Kaeding noted. “It is more important than ever to diversify and grow our export markets. Our Province’s producers provide the food and energy security the world needs. I look forward to continuing to build on our relationship with the UAE and further increase bilateral trade, bringing new investment and creating more jobs for Saskatchewan people.”
The increase in exports aligns with Saskatchewan’s broader economic achievements. The province surpassed its $20 billion agri-food export target from the 2030 Growth Plan, recording $20.2 billion in shipments for 2023. This milestone marks the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking agri-food export figures. Overall, Saskatchewan’s total exports exceeded $102 billion for 2022 and 2023 combined, a 52% increase over the previous two-year period and the highest in the province’s history.
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