Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP) – Driving Global Trade Success
Company Overview
The Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP) is a non-profit trade promotion agency dedicated to accelerating international business opportunities for Saskatchewan-based companies. Headquartered in Regina and Saskatoon, Canada, STEP provides market intelligence, trade development support, and funding programs to help businesses expand their export reach globally.
STEP plays a pivotal role in strengthening Saskatchewan's position in international markets by connecting local producers, manufacturers, and service providers with potential buyers worldwide.
Business Operations
STEP’s core mission is to increase Saskatchewan’s exports by providing tailored support to local businesses through the following key services:
1. Trade Development Services
- Organizing outgoing trade missions to key global markets.
- Hosting incoming buyer events to facilitate B2B connections.
- Providing access to international trade shows and exhibitions.
2. Market Intelligence Services
- Offering customized market research and industry reports.
- Conducting export readiness assessments for Saskatchewan businesses.
- Providing insights on global trade compliance and regulatory requirements.
3. Funding Programs
- Market Access Program (MAP): Financial assistance for export market entry.
- Materials Translation Program: Supporting multilingual marketing materials for international trade.
4. Training and Workshops
- Export training programs to guide businesses through international expansion.
- Trade compliance seminars to ensure regulatory adherence.
Competitive Advantages
- Extensive Global Network: Strong partnerships with trade offices, embassies, and international buyers.
- Data-Driven Market Intelligence: In-depth reports and trade insights for informed decision-making.
- Tailored Financial Support: Exclusive funding programs for Saskatchewan-based businesses.
- Comprehensive Export Readiness Support: Step-by-step guidance from market research to trade execution.
Market Presence and Export Data
STEP has played a critical role in Saskatchewan's economic growth, helping local businesses export products and services across 150+ countries. Saskatchewan's total exports exceeded $41 billion in 2022, making it one of Canada’s leading export provinces.
Key export destinations include:
- United States
- China
- Japan
- Mexico
- India
- European Union countries
Saskatchewan is a global leader in agriculture, energy, and mining exports, with STEP actively supporting companies in these industries.
Certifications and Compliance
STEP ensures compliance with Canada’s export regulations and offers guidance on:
- Trade agreements such as CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement) and CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership).
- International trade finance and risk management through expert consultations.
- Global trade compliance to meet import/export regulatory standards.
Member Testimonials
- "STEP has been instrumental in connecting us with key buyers in Asia, helping us expand our international footprint." – Saskatchewan Agribusiness Exporter
- "Their trade missions and funding programs have provided invaluable support for our company’s global growth." – Manufacturing Sector Business
Key Achievements
- $41+ billion in total provincial exports (2022).
- Saskatchewan ranks among Canada’s top three export provinces.
- Expansion into 150+ global markets through STEP-supported trade initiatives.
- Numerous trade missions and international networking events annually.
Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership continues to be a driving force in global trade expansion, equipping Saskatchewan-based businesses with the resources, knowledge, and connections they need to thrive in international markets.
