At the recent Food, Fuel, & Fertilizer Global Summit hosted by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, Merissa Scarlett, executive director of the Estevan Chamber of Commerce, gained new perspectives on Saskatchewan’s growing impact on the global stage. As industry leaders discussed opportunities and challenges, Scarlett reflected on how Estevan businesses can navigate the shifting landscape and make their mark in a world that needs what Saskatchewan offers most.
Scarlett shared several key takeaways from the summit, focusing on the importance of telling Saskatchewan's story in a positive light and highlighting the province's significant role in global industries. "The positivity in the room telling our stories, making sure people hear about it, and defining our industries in a positive light," she said. "We benefit our communities immensely through our natural resources, so let's share their stories."
She continued, emphasizing Saskatchewan's crucial role in addressing global needs. "We have what the world needs so the title is so apt. Food, fuel, fertilizer. So there’s going to be energy needs in the world. There’s food needs in the world, and the population is only growing. So whether it's ag, oil and gas, or mining, we have what the world wants. And Saskatchewan is a key player on the global scale of things."
Scarlett also noted opportunities for business owners in Estevan, especially in light of the ongoing U.S. tariffs. "A big opportunity that was brought up was expanding beyond the United States," she said. "There is opportunity to go global in Canada, especially with the gridlock of getting products from east to west. If you do have a product that you want to get out on that world scale, start thinking about that. There is SaskTrade and Export Partnership (STEP), they’re there to help businesses expand and can walk you through how to take that next step."
Scarlett highlighted that larger companies such as Nutrien, Richardson, and CN are heavily impacted by shipping regulations within Canada. 'There’s been regulation put in place that slows down trade, slows down our supply chain, and slows down getting Canada's natural resources to the world.'"
She also explained how the Estevan Chamber of Commerce can help local businesses. "If you’re having issues in this area—trade, or anything that feels like it’s a federal or provincial issue—let me know. I can pass that on to our provincial and national chambers. These organizations host events and meet with policymakers who can affect change, so the more I know, the more we can pass on and that’s how we affect change from a business perspective."
The Chamber works closely with the Saskatchewan Chamber and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to share feedback and information. "Every Chamber of Commerce is independent. But we host a monthly roundtable where I get to sit with other chambers from Saskatchewan, and they ask for feedback every month. I can also reach out to the CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber for issues on a provincial or federal level."
To build on the momentum from the summit, Scarlett encouraged members to proudly share their stories. "Talk about your industry, talk about how in Canada we employ people in great ways. We treat workers fairly. We have human rights here. So if you are in oil and gas, be proud of it. Canada has natural resources, and we’re one of the most sustainable and innovative ways to get those resources out of the ground."
She also reflected on the overall sense of optimism at the summit, despite the challenges faced. "It was very positive because, as much as we're undergoing these tariffs and uncertainty, we have an election at the end of the day. Our industries in Saskatchewan are needed, and when you have a needed industry on a global scale, we’re secure. The next few months may be difficult, but the next few years look good."
Scarlett concluded with a hopeful outlook for Estevan's future. "There are ups and downs, but our province is here to stay. Estevan is poised to keep going and maybe growing to serve the world's needs."