Regina, SK – The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce (SCC) is encouraged by many of the plans outlined in the Government of Saskatchewan’s Speech from the Throne today. The SCC congratulates the government for balancing the budget four years ahead of schedule. 
 
“Saskatchewan is a global player when it comes to food, fuel, and fertilizer,” said SCC CEO Prabha Ramaswamy. “We agree with the government that Saskatchewan has what the world needs. Policies that bolster that position help to make Saskatchewan businesses more competitive, regionally, nationally and internationally.”
 
The opening of a ninth international trade office, this time in Germany is another signal of Saskatchewan’s place as a global exporter. Exports are essential to the economic growth of Saskatchewan. In fact, 70 percent of what’s produced here goes to international markets. Saskatchewan businesses are ready to meet increasing demands for potash, uranium, and agricultural products.
 
Coming out of the pandemic hasn’t been easy for Saskatchewan businesses. They are facing increased pressures from inflation, supply chain issues, and labour shortages. The SCC supports the government’s plans to sign the Saskatchewan Canada Immigration Accord for more autonomy and flexibility to meet the demands in the labour market. Enhancing the supply of workers in Saskatchewan will go a long way in easing the labour shortage businesses are facing.
 
The issue of greater autonomy over our natural resources is an important one for the people of Saskatchewan. Maintaining Saskatchewan’s role as a global leader in producing sustainable food, fuel, and fertilizer is dependent on the province fully leveraging its rich natural resources. Leveraging these resources has become increasingly more difficult with the current federal government policies and regulations.
 
“The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce looks forward to receiving more information on the Saskatchewan First Act,” said Ramaswamy. “Our members believe there needs to be greater transparency and collaboration between the federal and provincial governments on this issue. The SCC is supportive of measures that give Saskatchewan businesses the advantage they need to compete regionally, nationally, and internationally. We will be monitoring this very closely.”
 
The government’s commitment to the Saskatchewan Indigenous Investment Finance Corporation, providing $75M in loan guarantees for economic development opportunities will greatly enhance Saskatchewan’s Indigenous communities and economic reconciliation.
 

 
About The SCC
The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is the Voice of Saskatchewan Business and represents the interests of over 10,000 individual businesses, industry associations, and local chambers across the province through its chamber network. More information can be found at saskchamber.com or @SaskChamber on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.