REGINA — Economic Development Regina (EDR) and roughly 20 partners recently wrapped up a U.S. engagement strategy trip to Denver, Colorado.
The trip intended to bolster the already-established relationship between Saskatchewan and Colorado amid the ongoing trade war between Canada and the U.S.
“We saw a large amount of enthusiasm and appreciation for the people of Sask. and I think that has to do with the many similarities in our sectors, whether that is food, agriculture or mining,” said Chris Lane, EDR CEO.
Lane said Colorado and Saskatchewan trade $220 million in goods annually, and the province exports roughly $150 million to the state, emphasizing the importance of maintaining relations.
This relationship has been stressed by Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who, back in March, announced the founding of Colorado Canada Friendship Day.
Polis has publicly denounced U.S. tariffs on Canada, calling them “reckless“ in a
As it stands, EDR estimates the worst-case scenario with the tariffs is creating a $329 million hole in Regina’s GDP in 2025, with a potential loss of 730 jobs.
In the past weeks, U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed more tariffs, including a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian auto parts.
Even with new tariffs, Lane doesn't see those estimated numbers changing.
Along with bolstering relations, Lane said this trip presented opportunities for business expansion or investment attraction.
“These areas include aerospace and defence, and we know there’s a growing sector for that work in Regina and Moose Jaw.”
Lane also sees potential for efficient hydrogen production and biofuel development in Regina after seeing the National Renewable Energy Lab in Denver.
Once he returns to Regina, Lane plans to speak with delegates and share notes on the trip.
Lane also mentioned delegates from Colorado are planning to head to Regina for a reciprocal mission.
With the return of the Regina-Denver flight, Lane believes this is a huge benefit as business leaders have more opportunities to see the city and invest in it.
As for EDR, they’re targeting Minneapolis in the fall for their next U.S. engagement strategy trip.
“It’s such an important centre in the U.S. for agriculture, food processing, and food production,” said Lane.
Like Denver, Minneapolis also has daily direct flights to Regina, making it an ideal city to target, he added.
