New agreement strengthens Canadian exports and supports global agriculture
Canada has taken another step to strengthen its position in global agriculture with a new government-to-government potash supply agreement with Bangladesh. Announced by Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu, the agreement will provide Canadian potash to the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation through a partnership involving the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) and Canpotex.
The new agreement is designed to support long-term demand for Canadian potash while helping Bangladesh secure an essential fertilizer ingredient needed for crop production.
“Canada is the world’s largest producer of potash. This agreement to supply Bangladesh with more high-quality potash builds on a trading relationship that saw our exports grow by over 25% this past year. It supports good-paying jobs for Canadian workers, advances our trade diversification agenda and reinforces Canada’s position as a reliable trading partner,” said Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade.
As global demand for food continues to grow, reliable access to fertilizers has become increasingly important. Canada is one of the world's leading producers and exporters of potash, making it a trusted supplier for countries seeking dependable fertilizer sources. The agreement highlights Canada's commitment to supporting global food security through stable agricultural supply chains.
The partnership also provides economic benefits for Canada. The agreement is expected to support Canadian jobs and create new opportunities for businesses involved in mining, transportation, logistics, and export activities. By securing international demand for Canadian potash, the deal contributes to the continued growth of the country's fertilizer sector.
“In an increasingly uncertain global landscape, CCC’s government-to-government contracting model helps ensure Canada’s trading partners have reliable access to critical minerals like potash. By enabling direct, government-backed agreements, we create stable, predictable supply arrangements that benefit Canadian exporters and their government buyers,” said Robert Kwon, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Commercial Corporation.
According to government data, Canadian fertilizer exports increased by 13.2% from 2024 to 2025, reaching a total value of approximately $9 billion. This growth demonstrates the importance of fertilizer exports to Canada's economy and its role in supplying agricultural inputs to global markets.
The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between Canada and Bangladesh. Through cooperation between CCC, Canpotex, and the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation, numerous potash contracts have been completed over the past decade. Since 2014, a total of 12 agreements have facilitated the delivery of more than 3.5 million metric tonnes of Canadian potash to Bangladesh.
Government officials say the latest agreement reflects Canada's reputation as a reliable trading partner. It also supports the country's broader trade diversification efforts by expanding opportunities in international markets and strengthening economic relationships outside traditional trading regions.
“This agreement is a strong example of how reliable access to Canadian potash can support food security and strengthen Canada’s long-standing overseas trade relationships. We’re proud to continue our partnership with CCC and BADC to deliver high-quality Canadian potash with the consistency and reliability that farmers depend on,” said Gordon McKenzie, President and Chief Executive Officer, Canpotex.
He added, “Partnerships like this also underscore the importance of resilient infrastructure, trade corridors and supply chains that connect critical Canadian resources with customers in overseas markets.”
Trade between Canada and Bangladesh has expanded significantly in recent years. Bilateral merchandise trade grew from approximately $600.5 million in 2004 to $4.1 billion in 2025. The continued growth demonstrates the strengthening economic relationship between the two countries and highlights opportunities for future cooperation across multiple sectors.
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