FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – March 18, 2026

REGINA, SK – Today, Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Jim Reiter, tabled Budget 2026-27, “Protecting Saskatchewan.” As foreshadowed throughout pre-budget commentary, this is a deficit budget that continues to invest in critical areas while acknowledging ongoing geopolitical headwinds: trade volatility, tariff pressures, and broader economic uncertainty.

The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce (the Chamber) is pleased to see Budget 2026-27 deliver on several commitments that align with its ongoing advocacy efforts, including:

• Holding the Small Business Tax Rate at one per cent
• $125m in funding for workplace development programs
• Continued commitment to the Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Tax Credit
• Ongoing support for the Young Entrepreneur Bursary Program, administered by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce
• Advancing efforts to promote free trade within Canada through the Committee on Internal Trade alongside federal, provincial, and territorial counterparts

Affordability remains top of mind for many Saskatchewan businesses and residents, and the Chamber is pleased to see no tax increases or new taxes, as well as the province advancing its commitment to continued income tax reductions. Further, record investments in health care and education will improve the quality of life for our residents, while aiding in the recruitment and retention of the skilled labour required to drive recent private-sector capital announcements. The budget’s commitment to $4.3 billion in capital investment and $30 billion in infrastructure investment by 2030 reflects an understanding that physical infrastructure is the platform on which economic growth is built.

While the projected $819.4 million deficit demands attention, the Chamber recognizes the logic of sustaining investments in provincial priorities amid significant external pressures. Although the severity of current trade disruptions and the weight of global economic uncertainty are legitimate pressures, deficit financing must come with a clear timeline and measurable commitments to fiscal recovery. The Chamber looks forward to continued dialogue with the Government of Saskatchewan on a path to fiscal balance in the years ahead.

“Today’s budget makes meaningful investments in key priorities and recognizes that small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurs drive Saskatchewan’s economy,” said the Chamber CEO, Prabha Ramaswamy. “Protecting core investments in a time of great uncertainty lays the foundation for a more competitive and resilient province for years to come.”

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ABOUT SASKATCHEWAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE:

The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is a leading advocate for business in the province, committed to driving economic growth and championing a thriving business community. As the ‘Voice for Saskatchewan Business’, the Chamber represents the interests of over 10,000 individual businesses, industry associations, and local chambers. More information can be found at saskchamber.com or @SaskChamber on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Josie Fries

Senior Director of Marketing and Events

E: jfries@saskchamber.com    |    P: 306-781-3125