(file photo/farmnewsNOW Staff)

By Alice McFarlane

Canola meal processing in Saskatchewan

Regina studies potential of a mid-scale canola meal plant

Aug 15, 2025 | 3:23 PM

In 2024, Canada exported 3.5 million metric tonnes of canola meal valued at $2.7 billion, according to the Canola Council of Canada. The United States is the largest single market for Canadian canola meal, with smaller volumes going to China, Japan, and other countries.

Economic Development Regina (EDR) believes there is potential for a mid-scale canola meal processing plant in Regina, Sask.

EDR CEO Chris Lane said this is based on economic modelling that’s been done recently into potential input and output, revenue, and job creation, among other things.

He said global demand for canola meal is rising – and the Greater Regina Area (GRA) is ready to meet it.

“This is a data-backed, investment-ready opportunity,” Lane said. “With the groundwork set and global demand accelerating, Regina is the right place – and now is the right time to invest.”

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The proposed facility would tap into 5.7 million tonnes of new canola crush capacity coming online by 2027 in the GRA, transforming local feedstock into canola meal for export.

Lane said it would help reduce Canada’s reliance on imported soymeal and strengthen domestic agri-food supply chains.

“This project could add approximately $4 million annually to the province’s export value,” he said. “It’s a meaningful boost to Saskatchewan’s economy and reinforces Regina’s position as a hub for agri-food innovation.”

The proposed canola meal facility is part of a new initiative from EDR to create investment-ready opportunities for global capital. Using EDR’s data analytics and economic methodology, the potential project is ready for investors to take the next step.

“These ratings aren’t just letters – they’re proof. Proof that Regina has the resources, infrastructure, and momentum. Investors looking for long-term, sustainable, and scalable opportunities should be looking here,” Lane added.

The target markets would include U.S., China, Japan, Southeast Asia, and Africa.

Cargill is expected to open a canola crush facility in Regina this year while Federated Co-operatives Limited paused plans in early 2025 to build a canola crush facility in Regina.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com