By the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne
It is no secret that potash is one of the most important resources. The crops that farmers grow around the world, and in Canada, would not be as plentiful and nutritious without it.
As the global population grows, so will demand for potash. And, with Canada being the world’s number-one potash nation, producing 10 million tonnes more than our nearest competitor, we are well placed to be a reliable supplier.[1] Our wealth of this valuable mineral, combined with our skilled workforce and expertise in sustainable extraction, presents a terrific opportunity. As well, with the current geopolitical situation, especially the war in Ukraine that disturbed the potash supply chain, our stable government and commitment to the rule of law make us an attractive source for the world’s potash needs.
A growing potash industry can create high-paying, skilled jobs, and grow the economies of Indigenous, rural, and remote regions. And building sustainable infrastructure for these communities will help attract projects, which in turn will provide benefits for their residents and for all Canadians.
We must be bold and seize this moment. That is why we are making strategic investments to grow Canada’s potash industry. In January 2023, we officially announced our government’s $100-million support to BHP’s massive new potash mine in Jansen, Sask. Our support will mean stronger, growing communities in Saskatchewan while helping us to meet our emission reduction goals. It will help the mine maintain 600 highly skilled jobs while providing over 100 co-op terms for students. As well, BHP has committed to support Indigenous communities through employment and economic opportunities in its supply chain, maintaining or establishing new business relationships with Indigenous-owned enterprises or First Nations bands in the province. When this facility comes online in 2026, it will further cement Canada’s global leadership in potash production.
Others see the potential of potash too. K+S Potash Canada, the Mosaic Company, and Nutrien Ltd. have all announced plans to increase production at their Saskatchewan facilities to support expanded exports to global markets. In June 2023, the Potash and Agri Development Corporation of Manitoba began producing potash at its solution mining facility in the community of Harrowby.[2]
That potential is a key reason potash is included in Canada’s first Critical Minerals Strategy. This $3.8-billion plan will help Canada to consolidate our position as a strong, sustainable producer and global supplier of minerals and metals, such as potash. We see them as critical to the global economy, and central to Canada’s trading relationships, our strategic global position, and our economic well-being.
That said, the strategy is about more than strengthening our position in global supply chains; it’s about better lives for Canadians. It will get projects up and running faster while building sustainable infrastructure to support them. The strategy will drive the research, innovation, and exploration of Canada’s critical minerals, and it will help us to grow a strong, diverse workforce while advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
Canada’s potash industry has the exciting potential to do more. That is why we are working with Canada’s potash companies to not only hold our position, but to extend our lead. In doing so, we are supporting the mining and agricultural sectors of Canada, while helping to build a stable, sustainable industry that creates good jobs and strong communities for generations to come. More so, our government knows that by working with companies on Canadian projects, we are ensuring that the world is seeing Canada as a trusted and reliable partner when it comes to potash supply.[3]
Clearly, Canada’s potash industry is gaining momentum. Together, we can take this industry to the next level while helping to feed the world. Everyone in Canada can feel good about that.
[1] https://investingnews.com/daily/resource-investing/agriculture-investing/potash-investing/top-potash-countries-by-production/
[2] https://manitoba-inc.ca/manitobas-first-potash-mine-launches-pilot-production/
