The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) are calling for swift action to address ongoing trade tariffs that continue to impact farmers.
APAS met with Kody Blois, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister when he was in Saskatoon for last week's canola meeting.
APAS President Bill Prybylski emphasized the urgency of resolving tariff disputes with China and the United States, which have disrupted normal trade flows and hurt our agricultural economy.
"We’re looking for a commitment from both levels of government to bring these canola tariffs and all the tariff talk to the forefront," Prybylski said. "We need to start dealing with them as soon as possible and hopefully get back to some sort of normal trade."
In addition to seeking resolution on tariffs, APAS and the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) have issued a joint call for expanded global trade opportunities. Prybylski praised SUMA’s support, noting the important connection between agriculture and urban economies.
"They recognize the value that agriculture brings to the urban communities with all the businesses, the processors scattered across the province," he said. "The economics of the province are very dependent on the farm economy."
Prybylski believes the partnership between APAS and SUMA will help amplify the message and highlight the broader impact of the tariff crisis.
"I’m hopeful this collaboration will shed light on the severity of the situation," he added. "Farmers are taking a direct hit, and it will eventually affect the entire economy of the province."
SUMA President Randy Goulden echoed the sentiment, stating that a thriving agricultural sector is essential for a prosperous Saskatchewan. "The jobs and economic benefits that agriculture provides extend to our cities, towns, and northern communities."