STEP OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED

Released on August 21, 1996

Deputy Premier and Economic Development Minister Dwain Lingenfelter
today joined with Milton Fair, CEO of the Saskatchewan Trade and Export
Partnership (STEP), to officially launch the industry-government export
development partnership.

"With very good reason, the Partnership for Growth economic strategy
identifies export development in general, and formation of a trade and
export partnership in particular, as important areas on which to focus
resources", Lingenfelter said. "Canada is now the most export-oriented
country in the G-7, and Saskatchewan is one of the most trade dependent
jurisdictions in Canada, if not the world.

"Exports were worth $16 billion to the Saskatchewan economy last year.
International and interprovincial exports account directly and
indirectly for one of every three jobs in Saskatchewan."

STEP is a non-profit corporation with a mandate to increase
Saskatchewan's exports to existing markets and to tap into new markets,
which it plans to do by initiating sales, contracts and projects for
exporters from the private and public sectors.

"Saskatchewan industry and government have jointly developed this
unique partnership to build on our strengths for the benefit of
Saskatchewan companies and the province as a whole", Fair said. "I
believe that Saskatchewan exporters have a great future and that STEP
and each one of us can play a part in that success."

Specific services provided by STEP include information and advice on
products, markets, promotion, education and export financing;
networking; assistance with partnerships and joint ventures; and
opportunities to participate in trade missions and meet with incoming
buyers. STEP also acts as an advocate for the province and for
Saskatchewan firms in trade matters.

Initially, 90 per cent of STEP's funding will come from government.
Ten per cent will come from industry through membership fees and fees
for service. The industry portion will increase as membership and
services grow.

Membership is open to all Saskatchewan exporters, as well as firms and
entrepreneurs with potential to export products or services. Members
receive a wide range of services for an annual fee. Associate
memberships are also available for organizations, institutions,
associations and individuals interested in export activities and/or
providing services to exporters or potential exporters.

Organizations or individuals may contact STEP at: Saskatchewan Trade
and Export Partnership Inc. (STEP) Box 1787, 2nd Floor, 1919
Saskatchewan Drive, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada S4P 3C6 Phone:
(306) 787-9210.

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For more information, contact:

J. Milton Fair
Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-1550