Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said a potential Canada-India trade deal would benefit the province despite current Indian tariffs on pulse crops [1].
The deal is critical for Saskatchewan's agricultural sector, as pulse growers currently face significant financial barriers when exporting to one of the world's largest markets.
Speaking in Regina at the Western Canada-India Leaders Summit on May 29 and 30 [2], Moe said the need for a formal agreement to stabilize trade relations is clear. The premier said that while the province would benefit from a deal, the primary objective remains the reduction of import duties that hinder local producers [1].
"We need a deal that addresses the punishing tariffs on pulse crops," Moe said [1].
The summit serves as a platform for Western Canadian leaders to engage directly with Indian officials. Moe said that the current tariff structure acts as a deterrent for growers who wish to expand their reach into the Indian market [3].
"A Canada-India trade deal could help Saskatchewan pulse growers hit by Indian import tariffs," Moe said [4].
The premier said he is optimistic that diplomatic efforts and trade negotiations would lead to a more favorable environment for exporters. He said that the outcome of these discussions could provide immediate relief for the agricultural industry [5].
"I would hope we can get some relief on the tariffs when we come back from India," Moe said [6].
“"We need a deal that addresses the punishing tariffs on pulse crops."”
This push for a trade agreement signals Saskatchewan's strategic priority to diversify its export destinations. By targeting the removal of 'punishing' tariffs on pulse crops, the provincial government is attempting to lower the cost of entry into the Indian market, which would increase the global competitiveness of Saskatchewan farmers and reduce reliance on traditional trade partners.
