K+S expands potash production in Saskatchewan
By Invest in Canada
Germany-based K+S is investing up to $3 billion to expand its Bethune mine in Saskatchewan – a strategic move that reflects Canada’s growing global advantage in critical minerals. Powered in part by a new Indigenous-owned solar project, the expansion will nearly double the mine’s potash production.
A major investment in long-term growth
K+S Potash Canada is beginning construction on a transformative expansion of its Bethune mine, aiming to increase annual potash production from about two-million tonnes to four-million tonnes as part of a multi-decade growth strategy.
The Bethune mining facility is supported by Canada’s stable regulatory environment, a key factor in attracting and retaining global investment. It also benefits from free trade agreements with key markets in Asia, North America, and South America. As global demand rises, the site is actively scaling production and strengthening Canada’s role in sustainable resource development.
“Canada offers global companies a favourable business climate through regulatory stability,” said Sam Farris, president and general manager for K+S Potash Canada. “For K+S, that stability is reinforced by Canada’s high-quality and massive potash reserves, a competitive and well-established mining industry and access to expanding global potash markets.”
Bethune mine: A model for sustainable expansion in Canada
This project marks a significant step forward for K+S and its Canadian operations. It will substantially increase Canada’s potash output and advance global food security. The Bethune mine expansion employs solution mining technology, where heated water is used to dissolve underground potash deposits for surface processing. This approach showcases innovation in resource extraction and inspires investor confidence in Canada’s globally integrated, export-oriented economy.
Canada’s critical mineral advantage
Critical minerals like potash are central to Canada’s strategic investment appeal. As a key ingredient in sustainable fertilizer essential for global food systems, potash anchors long-term demand. Canada’s vast potash reserves – the largest in the world – along with access to clean energy position it as a leader in responsible mineral development. Advanced extraction technologies and strong Indigenous partnerships are turning this resource strength into scalable, investment-ready opportunities exemplified by flagship projects such as the Bethune mine expansion.
Invest in Canada’s role
Since 2019, Invest in Canada has partnered with K+S Potash Canada to support investment and promote sustainable growth. The team has provided regulatory guidance, delivered tailored business advisory services and facilitated direct connections with key federal departments, including Natural Resources Canada, ISED, and Global Affairs Canada. This collaboration has included site visits to Saskatoon and the Bethune mine, as well as executive-level meetings in Germany.
Indigenous collaboration and key energy innovation
A key part of the expansion’s sustainability strategy is the Wicehtowak Solar Project, a 32 MW solar farm developed by George Gordon First Nation. Located near the Bethune mine, the project is 100 per cent Indigenous-owned and backed by both federal and provincial support. Through a 30-year power purchase agreement, it will deliver clean electricity to the K+S potash mining operations while generating long-term economic benefits for the First Nation community.
“Being born and raised in Saskatchewan, I have seen firsthand the potential this province holds,” said Laurel Broten, CEO, Invest in Canada. “Invest in Canada has worked closely with K+S Potash Canada over the past six years, and it’s rewarding to see their Bethune mine creating careers, supporting local communities including the George Gordon First Nation and contributing to sustainable economic growth.”
Looking ahead
As global demand for sustainable fertilizer and responsible resource development increases, Canada is strengthening partnerships and driving innovation to meet these challenges. Investments like the K+S Bethune potash mine expansion illustrate the momentum behind Canada’s efforts to support clean growth and enhance international competitiveness. With energy and food security growing in importance, the world will continue looking to Canada.
Republished with permission from Invest in Canada.
—
