Agricultural shows are critical to the agri-food sector, driving innovation, building community networking and stimulating economic growth. In Saskatchewan, where agriculture is a cornerstone of the economy, Regina’s role as the host city of Canada’s Farm Show Regina, SK, presented by Viterra is not only strategic but essential.

Saskatchewan’s economy is deeply intertwined with agriculture, contributing billions of dollars to the provincial GDP. The province is renowned for its expansive prairies, ideal for both crop production and livestock farming.

With no signs of slowing down, the province’s agricultural exports totaled $20.2 billion in 2023. This accounts for 40 per cent of the province’s total exports.

Statistics Canada recognizes Saskatchewan as the world’s largest exporter of canola and Canada’s leader in the cultivation of cereal grains, oils seeds and pulses. Its vast prairie ecosystem is home to 39.2 per cent of Canada’s farm area and 41.1 per cent of its crop land. It has the second largest number of cattle, calves and beef cows in Canada, as well as the highest rate of adoption for technology like GIS, drones, variable-rate input application and auto steer.

Canada’s Farm Show attracts Canadian farmers, international guests, exhibitors and others in Saskatchewan’s agricultural community. This influx of visitors generates millions of dollars to the local economy, highlighting its crucial role in Regina. Additionally, the agriculture business sales generated both directly and indirectly in the months following the show help Canada’s agri-business sector to thrive.

Economic Development Regina (EDR) plays a pivotal role in positioning Regina as a hub for agricultural innovation and business development. Through Regina’s Agriculture and Food Innovation Strategy, EDR helps to cultivate and seize opportunities for the city to become a global hub for agriculture and food. These efforts strengthen the city’s role as a prime location for major agricultural events, fostering an environment where agriculture and technology converge.

The REAL District, a premier venue in the city, provides expansive exhibition spaces and modern facilities tailored for large-scale agricultural events.

In addition to CFS, Regina is home to the Canadian Western Agribition, one of the most important agriculture shows in North America. Combined, these two events generate over $250 million in economic impact for Saskatchewan, including $100 million specifically for the Regina area.

While the economic figures are impressive, they only scratch the surface of the true value these shows provide. They also promote thought leadership that propels the agriculture industry forward, making the REAL District a vital center for agricultural innovation globally. Furthermore, these events act as catalysts for hundreds of millions of dollars in business transactions, significantly contributing to Regina’s international reputation as a hub for agribusiness.

These agricultural shows serve as a vital platform for creating new business opportunities, with the potential for growth that will play an essential role in national and international investment attraction efforts.

Regina is a key player in Saskatchewan’s agri-food sector, generating significant economic activity, supporting local businesses and enhancing the province’s agricultural exports. With a thriving agricultural ecosystem, the city is poised to remain a leading global destination for the agricultural community.