The Canadian province stands ready to exchange agricultural research with Vietnam

As one of the Canadian provinces where agriculture plays a dominant role in the economy, Saskatchewan has sustainable agriculture deeply integrated with scientific research, becoming a crucial priority in the region's development strategy. 

Vietnam is currently Canada's largest trading partner in ASEAN, when Canada remains Vietnam's third-largest trading partner in the Americas. For both Vietnam and Canada, their trade relationship in recent years has not only been about exchanging goods but also serves as a fundamental platform to promote economic development and bilateral cooperation.

Saskatchewan: A model of sustainable agriculture and mining 

Mr. Warren Kaeding, Minister of Trade and Export Development for Saskatchewan, stated that the agricultural export-import turnover between the two countries has witnessed growth from over 900 million USD to more than 1.15 billion USD in 2023-2024, with many high-value agricultural products including seafood, vegetables, cashews, coffee, pepper, rubber. Particularly noteworthy is that agricultural products between Canada and Vietnam complement rather than directly compete with each other.

Mr. Kaeding emphasized that Saskatchewan recognizes Vietnam's significant contribution to the province's economy. Originating from an agricultural-based economy, Saskatchewan has effectively implemented advanced farming practices, diversified and rotated crops, adopted minimal tillage farming to store carbon, and invested in research activities.

In addition to its strength in agriculture, Canada also possesses significant mineral resources such as uranium, potash, gold, diamonds, copper, and helium. The province's key strengths lie in renewable energy, mineral extraction, and processing.

To effectively harness and utilize these resources, Mr. Warren shared that Canada requires a large skilled workforce. The Minister of Trade and Export Development of Saskatchewan noted that this would be an opportunity for the two countries to enhance the exchange of high-quality human resources.

Saskatchewan's sustainable agricultural approach helps drive the province's economic growth while becoming a model for Canada and the global agricultural industry. The innovative farming methods adopted by farmers and landowners significantly reduce carbon emissions and raise global awareness about environmental protection.

Trade agreements with preferential tariffs, such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), have also contributed to the growth of trade exports between Vietnam and Canada, bringing many complementary benefits. However, one of the biggest barriers in bilateral trade between the two countries is the geographic distance and high transportation costs.

Abundant supply of food, fuel and fertilizers for the world

In Saskatchewan, agriculture plays an important role, not only exporting many key agricultural products such as wheat, oats, canola, flax, and various types of beans, but also being a hub for research on sustainable development.

Recalling the discussions with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), the Minister of Trade and Export Development of Saskatchewan reaffirmed the province's readiness to share research that helps reduce emissions and implement various green initiatives in agriculture today.

"We want to share with Vietnam in many areas, whether it's the transfer of plant or animal breeds. Accessing the research we have developed will support Vietnam's agriculture on the path to sustainable production," Mr. Warren said.

In 2023, at the Canadian Western Agribition Grain Expo, Saskatchewan hosted a meeting with delegation from the Dong Nai Livestock Association to learn about how farms in Saskatchewan manage land effectively and sustainably. Saskatchewan introduced innovations in beef cattle farming, reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the efficient use of land, water, and feedings.

"I think this is a great example of the collaborative sharing we have between institutions and research schools," Mr. Warren Kaeding said.

Reaffirming the potential for cooperation, Mr. Warren Kaeding stated that Vietnam is a very important economy and a top destination for Canadian goods in the ASEAN region. Recognizing the development Vietnam has built over the years, the leadership of Saskatchewan's Ministry of Trade and Export Development is confident that they have the available resources to further support the development of Vietnam's economy.

He remains open to opportunities for cooperation, not only to grow agricultural product exchanges but also to cover issues such as ensuring food security, biotechnology collaboration, genetic engineering, forestry, and veterinary livestock.