Date: March 27, 2025
The Summit focused on addressing critical aspects of trade, economic resilience, and strategic foresight in agriculture. Key discussions centered on:
- International Trade Complexities: Exploration of export data transparency, modernization of grain contracts, and navigating tariff risks, highlighting the importance of trade to Canada's agricultural economy.
- Advocacy and Risk Management: Emphasis on improving advocacy for agriculture and managing risks associated with geopolitical changes and trade disruptions.
- Strategic Planning: Strategies for capitalizing on Saskatchewan's competitive advantages in uncertain global markets, aiming to secure long-term growth and stability.
The summit served as a platform for farmers, industry leaders and experts to share insights and perspectives, ensuring the sector is well-equipped to face current challenges.
Many thanks to the Summit sponsors - SaskBarley, SaskOilseeds, SaskCattle, SaskEggs, SaskWheat, SaskPork, and SaskPulse!
Master of Ceremonies
Dion Martens, Executive Director, Saskatchewan Egg Producers
- Jake Leguee, Chair, Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission
Greetings from the Government of Saskatchewan
- The Honourable Daryl Harrison, Minister of Agriculture
Supply Chain Impact of Export Sales Data Transparency in Canada’s Grain Industry
- Marlene Boersch, Partner, Mercantile Consulting Venture Inc.
Modernizing Grain Contracts in Western Canada
- Al Mussell, Research Lead, Agri-Food Economic Systems
Increasing the Effectiveness of Saskatchewan’s Ag Advocacy
- Don Moors, President, Temple Scott Associates
Hard Truths of Trade: Adapting to a Changing Global Market
- Carlo Dade, Director for International Policy, University of Calgary
Trade Wars and Farm Costs: How U.S. Tariffs Impact Ag Retailers
- Stu Rasmussen, Board Chair, Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers
Trade, Trump, and Tariffs - What's Next?
- Chris Dekker, CEO, Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership
Navigating Agri-Food Risks: Trade, Geopolitics, and Strategy for Growth
- Tyler McCann, Managing Director, Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute
Saskatchewan’s Sustainable Advantage: Cultivating New Global Markets in Uncertain Times
- Dr. Steven Webb, CEO, Global Institute for Food Security
- Bill Prybylski, President, Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan
Key topics to be discussed at the Ag Summit include:
- Grain Contracts: Addressing imbalances and advocating for modernization to ensure fairness for growers. SaskCrops and APAS are undertaking a research project to develop a balanced contract model.
- Export Sales Data: Promoting transparency in market demand to help producers align marketing strategies. APAS and SaskCrops have hired a research firm to estimate the potential impacts of increased data transparency on farm profitability and the Canadian economy.
- Ag Advocacy: Temple Scott Associates will contribute their expertise in government and public relations, helping to strengthen advocacy efforts and navigate trade challenges for Saskatchewan's agricultural sector.
- Trade and Tariffs: Preparing for and mitigating potential changes to Canada-US trade policy and understanding the potential impacts on farms and agri-businesses across the province.
