The potash industry in Saskatchewan hit new highs in sales and production last year. The province’s 10 mines produced 14.2 million tonnes of potash with sales reaching $7.6 billion.
Last August, BHP announced that it was completing the Jansen potash mine for a total investment of $12 billion making it the single largest economic investment in Saskatchewan’s history.
Energy and Resources Minister Bronwyn Eyre lists the accomplishments of the sector.
“Saskatchewan continues to lead the world in the production of potash, which emits 50 per cent fewer emissions and is more sustainably produced here than in any jurisdiction in the world. Over the past 15 years, the Saskatchewan potash sector has committed more than $30 billion of investment in mine expansions and new projects. It directly employs some 6,000 people and contributes to the livelihoods of thousands more.”
Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan aims to raise the annual value of potash sales to $9 billion and officials note the province is on track to do this well before 2030.
Saskatchewan is the only producer of potash in Canada and the industry contributes about 30 per cent of world production.