Logistical problems at home concern for Saskatchewan exports

Panaji, Feb 20. The Canadian state of Saskatchewan fears its agricultural produce export to India could plummet due to logistical problems back home. "The next financial year looks to be strong but we are experiencing logistical issues back home," Lyle Stewart, Minister for Agriculture, Saskatchewan, told on the sidelines of ongoing 'The Pulses Conclave' in Goa organised by India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA). Saskatchewan is the largest Canadian trading partner for India. "All products are sent through sea port and there is competition with other commodities that may slowdown export for the next financial year," he explained. India is the fourth largest market for agricultural products from Saskatchewan region, with the US leading the buyers followed by China and Japan. The region exported agricultural produce worth USD 691 million (lentils USD 335 million and peas USD 354 million) to India. Stewart, who is currently on a 12-day mission to India, United Arab Emirates and Morocco, said that problems with rail transportation is another hurdle faced by the region, which proves to be an impediment for exports. "The slowdown will affect other commodities too. The problems are associated with our rail system. We expect that the federal government will work out a solution. Ideally, we can supply more in a normal year," said Stewart. He said the rail transportation will take off after weather warms up there following which the exports will catch up. Stewart said besides the logistical issue faced by Saskatchewan, the year-on-year growth with India will also depend on the demand from the country. "We are trying to compliment Indian production," he said while terming India as "natural partner" due to its large population. "Business with India is extremely important as the country with 1.2 billion people has high needs for food products. I am here to service good relationship with India," he said. "Government of India and Canada are talking about the trade agreements to further boost the ties. We are here to encourage both the governments to pursue their trade relations," the Minister said. Since India has an ambitious goal to increase agricultural productivity, the research assistance from Saskatchewan can also help it achieve the same, he added.