With 30 per cent of the world’s potash production coming from Saskatchewan, a new way of transporting the pink mineral was unveiled on Friday in Japan, who is one of Saskatchewan’s biggest trade partners.
U-SEA SASKATCHEWAN, the first of nine vessels, was delivered in the Asian country on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, Canpotex Limited and U-Sea Bulk in Denmark. The vessel can carry around 60,000 metric tons of potash and will improve Canpotex’s transportation of the mineral.
Canpotex is the largest exporter of potash in the world. The company is owned by Agrium Inc., The Mosaic Company and PotashCorp, which are the potash producers in Saskatchewan.
Martensville MLA Nancy Heppner presided over the delivery. She spoke of the long, solid relationship Canpotex enjoys with Japan.
“Japan enjoys a strong relationship with Canpotex, and in turn Canpotex has a strong relationship with Saskatchewan, both of which extend almost forty years,” Heppner said.
The vessel’s maiden voyage will take place later this month after it returns to Canada to load Saskatchewan’s potash. The venture gives Canpotex more transportation options on the ocean.
According to President and Chief Executive Officer of Canpotex, Steve Dechka, the ship’s plans have been in the works for several years.
“This delivery marks the culmination of five years of planning to ensure we have the ocean transportation capability to handle our long-term sales commitments,” Dechka said. “It is very gratifying to see the first vessel afloat and on its way.”
The eight other vessels will be named after Saskatoon, Regina and six of the ten Saskatchewan potash mine locations.
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