Mexico is becoming a popular destination for more than just Saskatchewan’s tourists.
In 2022, the province’s exports to Mexico topped $1 billion for the first time ever, according to the Ministry of Trade and Export Development.
Agri-food exports made up 97 per cent of the exports, with canola oil, canola seed and non-durum wheat making up the top three. Canola seed alone accounted for the bulk of the exports, with a total value of $557 million, the ministry said in a release.
The provincial government opened an international trade office in Mexico City last year, which the ministry described as “invaluable” and “a key part in growing Saskatchewan’s exports.”
In addition to Mexico, Saskatchewan has international offices in China, India, Japan, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Vietnam. A German office is expected to open later in 2023, the ministry said.
David Marit, Saskatchewan’s agriculture minister, said the province is becoming known as a reliable source of sustainable agri-food products.
“These strong numbers show that trade and investment offices have expanded our international networks and helped increase the value of our exports,” he said in a statement.
Canola oil showed the largest growth among exports to Mexico, increasing by almost 80 per cent between 2021 and 2022 for a total value of $206 million. All of Saskatchewan’s canola oil exports in 2022 added up to $3.5 billion, the ministry added.
“Growth in canola oil exports will increase with investments in canola crushing plants throughout Saskatchewan,” the ministry said.