The Influence of Immigrants on Trade Diversification in Saskatchewan

Government and business leaders frequently view immigration as a partial solution to skills and labour shortages. However, the broader macroeconomic and social effects of high levels of immigration should not be ignored. Immigration influences factors such as Canada’s GDP, taxes, housing market, consumption patterns, government expenditures, and productivity—and it can also impact trade.

Building on previous studies that have analyzed the effects of immigration on trade at a national level, this briefing examines the impact of immigrants at the provincial level, using Saskatchewan’s trade as an example. It demonstrates that immigrants may have a marked influence on Saskatchewan’s trade flows and that increasing ethnic diversity through immigration can promote trade diversification, spurring additional opportunities for trade outside North America. The increased trade will directly benefit the province by stimulating economic growth and will improve residents’ quality of life by reducing living costs and raising incomes.