SASKATCHEWAN TECHNOLOGY SELLS IN KAZAKHSTAN

Released on March 4, 2004

Agricultural implements and tractors from Saskatchewan are on their way to Kazakhstan. In the past six months new and used tractor and implement sales to producers in Kazakhstan were over $15 million (Canadian).

"This boost in implement sales has brought relief to an industry challenged with issues including drought, BSE and the prevailing U.S. dollar exchange rate," Industry and Resources Minister Eric Cline said. "We understand that these initial orders could mean further sizeable contracts for Saskatchewan companies in the near future."

Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership (STEP) is leading an agricultural machinery mission to Kazakhstan from March 6th – 13th, 2004 with six Saskatchewan companies. In addition to agricultural machinery, there is significant potential for the hog, beef and dairy industries, as well as opportunities for Saskatchewan agricultural specialists and consultants. "As a follow-up to this initiative, a second mission is scheduled to take place in late May concentrating on the same sector," STEP Director of International Development Tim Marshall said.

Delegations from Kazakhstan are planning to visit Saskatchewan throughout the year and it is anticipated that 20 buyers will attend the Western Canadian Farm Progress Show in June.

The Republic of Kazakhstan is situated around the globe from Saskatchewan, yet its agriculture sector is a mirror image of that found here. The climate of Kazakhstan and Saskatchewan are similar with 250 – 400 millimeters of rainfall, 40 C summers and minus 40 C winters. The use of Saskatchewan dry-land farming technology is a must for Kazakhstan and its large extensive grain production industry.

STEP has been actively pursuing opportunities for Saskatchewan exporters in this region since 1996. Saskatchewan has had a presence in the region since 1989 when an agreement was signed between the province and Kazakhstan that focused on the development of agriculture.

STEP is a non-profit, membership driven, government/industry partnership, designed to promote the growth of Saskatchewan's export industry. STEP assists provincial businesses to realize global marketing opportunities through specially tailored services and programs. STEP pursues growth in existing foreign markets and opens doors to new ones. Members include both businesses that are experienced and those that are new to international trade. The team of professionals has the experience, knowledge and international contacts to help companies meet their international marketing objectives.

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For More Information, Contact:

Tim Marshall Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership Regina Phone: (306)787-2191

Bob Ellis Industry and Resources Regina Phone: (306)787-8277