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SASKATOON — China’s consul general in Calgary says Western Canada is well positioned to benefit from Beijing’s next five-year economic plan, pointing to growing opportunities in agriculture, energy, fertilizer production and investment as relations between the two countries continue to improve.
In a letter outlining China’s economic priorities under its 15th Five-Year Plan, the consul general argued recent diplomatic progress between Ottawa and Beijing has created new momentum for trade and investment while opening the door to a more stable long-term relationship.
The letter points to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to China earlier this year, where the two countries issued a joint statement, signed cooperation agreements and agreed to advance what Beijing describes as a new strategic partnership.
According to the consul general, China’s modernization efforts and continued economic growth are expected to create new opportunities for Saskatchewan and Western Canada, particularly in sectors where the region already holds a competitive advantage.
The letter describes China and Canada as having highly complementary economies, noting bilateral trade reached nearly $125 billion in 2025. China remains Canada’s second-largest trading partner and a major market for Saskatchewan exports including canola, peas, wheat and potash.
The consul general acknowledged the relationship has experienced periods of strain in recent years, resulting in trade disruptions and economic challenges for Saskatchewan producers. However, the letter credits recent diplomatic engagement with helping stabilize the relationship.
Particular emphasis was placed on Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe’s September 2025 trade mission to China, described as the first visit by a Canadian premier in many years. The letter says the mission helped improve bilateral relations and laid groundwork for resolving trade disputes.
Following subsequent discussions involving Carney and Moe, the consul general said agricultural exports from Saskatchewan to China have shown signs of recovery and sustained growth.
Much of the letter focuses on opportunities emerging from China’s new economic plan.
Beijing’s continued emphasis on food security is expected to support long-term demand for Saskatchewan agricultural products including canola, peas and wheat. The consul general also identified opportunities in green energy sectors, including nuclear power, hydrogen and wind energy.
The letter further highlights China’s growing need for agricultural inputs, particularly potash, which could benefit Saskatchewan’s mining industry.
Referencing a phrase often used by Moe, the consul general noted Saskatchewan’s strengths in food, fuel and fertilizer align closely with China’s future development priorities.
Beyond trade, Beijing is also encouraging greater investment ties.
The letter cites survey results indicating 68 per cent of Canadian companies operating in China plan to expand their presence there over the next five years. Chinese officials say they welcome additional Saskatchewan investment in China and believe Chinese companies could increase investment in Saskatchewan as well.
Potential areas for future Chinese investment include agricultural processing, mineral development, clean energy and infrastructure projects. The consul general argues such investments could support economic diversification, industrial growth and job creation across Saskatchewan and Western Canada.
The letter also emphasizes the importance of educational, cultural and tourism exchanges, describing people-to-people connections as a critical foundation supporting broader economic cooperation.
Special mention was made of the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina, which the consul general said have maintained longstanding partnerships with Chinese institutions through student exchanges, agricultural research and talent development programs.
The overall message of the letter is one of optimism.
While acknowledging past disagreements, the consul general argues the future relationship between China and Western Canada should be defined by expanding trade, investment and cooperation in strategic sectors where both sides see mutual economic benefit.
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