A chat with Canada’s financial secretary of state

Hannah Sangster, a reporter, sat down with Canada's Secretary of State for Finance, Wayne Long, to discuss pre-budget consultations happening in Saskatchewan. The budget serves as the annual blueprint for the government's economic agenda, with the 2026/2027 plan set to be released this fall.

Long met with provincial stakeholders like Canpotex and BASF Agricultural Solutions to gauge where investments should be adjusted for the coming year. He also held a roundtable with the small and medium business community, emphasizing the importance of feedback from Canadians in shaping the budget.

Long believes the federal government has recognized the value of Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba, including their western provinces. He highlighted the significance of sectors such as canola, agriculture, and critical minerals to Canada's economy. He emphasized the need for collaboration with Saskatchewan, noting that the province has everything Canada and the world seek.

Trade tensions with the United States are a concern, but Long argues that working together is crucial more than ever. He stressed the importance of investing in Canada and trading east to west, rather than relying on north-south relationships.

Long learned valuable insights from locals in Saskatchewan, discussing topics like irrigation, research, and other aspects vital to the long-term growth and viability of the agriculture sector. He assured that the input he's gathered will be used to invest in and support the industry's healthy expansion, contributing to a coast-to-coast economy.