With so many headlines flying around about tariffs, it’s hard to tell what’s real, what’s speculation, and what actually affects your farm. So here’s a clear, straight-up summary for Western Canadian farmers and landowners—focused on what matters.

What’s Going On? A Quick Breakdown:

• Canada was not included in the new U.S. tariffs announced April 2.

• Previously announced 25% U.S. tariff on Canadian goods (March 4) is still PAUSED for goods that comply with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA/USMCA), which includes Canola.

• China has imposed 100% tariffs on Canadian canola oil, meal, and peas.

• Canada announced retaliatory tariffs, but it's still unclear whether U.S. farm machinery is included.

• The result? Widespread uncertainty, cautious buyers, and a wait-and-see mindset across the ag industry.

What’s the Status of the US Canola Tariffs?

On March 4, the U.S. announced a 25% tariff on Canadian canola seed, oil, and meal. Just two days later, those tariffs were paused for any products that meet USMCA trade rules—which includes most Canadian canola exports.

✔ So yes—canola is currently exempt from U.S. tariffs for now.
But the pause isn’t permanent, so it’s still something to watch.

Why Did China Impose Tariffs on Canadian Ag?

In short: retaliation.

China’s 100% tariffs on Canadian canola oil, meal, and peas weren’t about agriculture directly—they were a response to Canada’s decision to investigate and potentially restrict Chinese electric vehicle (EV) imports.

Agriculture had nothing to do with the dispute—but, as so often happens, farmers ended up caught in the middle. And many feel the federal government hasn’t shown enough urgency or attention in responding to the impact these tariffs are having on Prairie producers.

What’s the Deal with Canada’s Retaliatory Tariffs?

In response to U.S. trade actions, Canada announced its own 25% retaliatory tariffs—but hasn’t made it clear whether that includes U.S.-made farm equipment.

This lack of clarity is a real problem:

• Farmers are hesitant to invest in combines, sprayers, or tractors.

• Dealers can’t guarantee pricing or delivery.

• U.S. manufacturers are already laying off staff.

• Equipment sales are slowing—right at the start of planting season.

At the recent Canada Farm Show in Regina in March, interest in new machinery was high—but few were buying.

What This Means for You

Even if you’re not shopping for equipment this year, this kind of uncertainty affects:

• Crop planning and marketing—especially if you’re exporting to the U.S. or China

• Big-ticket decisions—like refinancing or land purchases

• Confidence across the industry—and confidence is what keeps deals moving

But here’s the upside: Saskatchewan farmland continues to hold its value, especially in regions with good soil, irrigation potential, or strong recent yields. A solid piece of land still speaks for itself—regardless of what the headlines say. 

What This Means for You

Even if you’re not shopping for equipment this year, this kind of trade uncertainty touches every corner of the ag economy.

• Crop planning and marketing may need adjustments—especially if you’re exporting to the U.S. or China

• Big-ticket decisions—like capital purchases or refinancing—might be on hold

• Confidence shapes decisions—and in times like this, people tend to step back… or step forward

We’re seeing both. Some are pausing. Others are taking the opportunity to reassess—freeing up land or capital to stay nimble as things shift.

What You Can Do Right Now

✔ Talk to your dealer before committing to U.S. equipment—ask about price guarantees
✔ Check with your grain buyer about backup markets, especially for canola and peas
✔ Stay informed, not overwhelmed—trusted updates > noisy headlines
✔ If land is part of your equation—whether you're thinking of selling a parcel, freeing up equity, or making a smart trade—this could be a worthwhile moment to check in.

Wondering What Your Land Is Worth?

With prices holding steady—and in some regions, still climbing—this may be a smart time to quietly explore your options. When uncertainty is in the air, some folks choose to pause. But others take the opportunity to make a move while the market is still strong.

Whether you’re looking to sell a quarter, free up capital, or just want to understand how today’s landscape affects your land, we’re always here for a straight-up conversation.

📞 Call Dale at 306-774-6100

The 2024 FCC Farmland Values Report came out mid-March —and Saskatchewan is leading the country once again.

While national farmland values rose by 11.5%, Saskatchewan’s average cultivated land values jumped by 13.1%, making it the highest provincial increase in Canada.

So what’s driving the growth? And what should landowners, buyers, and sellers keep in mind?

Let’s break it down.

1. Northern and Central Regions Are Driving the Increase

Some of the biggest jumps in land values came from areas with good growing conditions and strong demand:

• North Western region: +19.9%

• North Eastern region: +17.9%

• West Central region: +17.8%

• East Central region: +17.0%

These areas saw a mix of larger landowners expanding their base, good moisture conditions, and high-quality soil that performed well under dryland conditions.

2. Irrigated Land Stands Out

In the West Central region, irrigated land values jumped by 25.8%—one of the most dramatic increases anywhere in the province and country.

That’s due to the scarcity of irrigated acres, ongoing dry conditions, and growing interest from both producers and investors. The announcement of the Westside Irrigation Rehabilitation Project also helped spark additional confidence in the region.

3. South Western Still Saw Modest Gains

Even in drier areas like the South West, values still rose—up 4.1%—thanks to ongoing demand for premium quality soils, despite less-than-ideal growing conditions in 2023.

4. Pastureland Holds Steady

Pastureland saw a provincial average increase of 8.9%, with the South West leading the way at +15.9%. The value range remained tight, meaning the land holds its value consistently regardless of where you are.

Read the full report here: https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/knowledge/economics/farmland-values-report

So What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re a landowner, this report confirms that your farmland is holding strong—or gaining ground. Whether you’re thinking about selling, refinancing, or just curious about land performance, this year’s numbers are promising.

If you’re a buyer, there are still good opportunities to invest, especially in regions with stable prices and long-term potential. Irrigation-ready or high-quality dryland acres continue to be in demand. Land continues to be a strong investment.

Want to Know What Your Land Is Worth?

This report offers averages, but every farm and field is different.

If you're wondering what your land might be worth in today’s market, or thinking about expanding or selling, give us a call. We’d be happy to walk you through what we’re seeing on the ground.

📞 Call Dale at 306-774-6100

Your Prairie Professionals in Farm and Ranch Real Estate in Saskatchewan.