Saskatchewan Pulse Growers wants new international markets explored

Saskatchewan Pulse Growers is appreciating a good harvest, as the focus shifts towards finding new international trade partners.

Despite drought conditions in parts of western Saskatchewan, Carl Potts, executive director of SPG, described yields in the majority of the province as “strong” and “higher-than-average” to go with good crop quality.

He adds that farmers are continuing their fall field work and recent rains will benefit soil moisture going into next year’s growing season.

However, declining crop prices, including those for pulses, as well as trade tensions are putting pressure on growers.

Peas are the most burdened by recent trade policies. 

In March, China imposed a 100 per cent import tax on Canadian peas in retaliation of Canada’s levy on Chinese electric vehicles, steel and aluminum. 

On Oct. 30, India announced it will implement a 30 per cent import duty on yellow peas effective Nov. 1 at the earliest.