Morning Brief: Top 5 Regina & Saskatchewan Stories (Monday, Feb 23, 2026)

Good morning, Regina and Saskatchewan. Here are the top five stories you need to know this Monday, February 23, 2026.

1. China to Reduce Canola Seed Tariffs

Saskatchewan farmers received welcome news this morning as China confirmed plans to lower tariffs on canola seed imports from 35% to 15% starting March 1. The reduction marks a significant shift in trade policy between the two nations and could deliver substantial financial relief to the province’s agricultural sector.

The tariff cut arrives after months of negotiations between Canadian and Chinese trade officials. Saskatchewan produces approximately 40% of Canada’s canola crop, making the province particularly sensitive to international trade barriers. Industry analysts estimate the tariff reduction could boost provincial canola exports by $200 million annually.

Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan spokesperson Jennifer Walsh called the announcement “a critical development for farm families across the province.” Walsh noted that many producers have struggled with reduced profit margins due to the higher tariff rates imposed in 2024.

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture released a statement confirming it has been monitoring the trade discussions closely. Minister David Chen indicated the government will continue working with federal counterparts to ensure smooth implementation of the new tariff structure. Chen emphasized the importance of diversifying export markets while maintaining strong relationships with traditional trading partners.

Canola growers in regions including Yorkton, Swift Current, and Melfort expressed cautious optimism about the change. Many farmers delayed planting decisions while awaiting clarity on international trade conditions. The March 1 implementation date provides time for producers to adjust crop planning for the upcoming growing season.

Market observers note that canola futures on the Winnipeg Commodity Exchange rose 3.2% in early trading Monday morning following the announcement.

2. SaskPower Rate Hike Concerns

Local business owners and agricultural operators voiced strong concerns over proposed electricity rate increases by SaskPower during a series of public consultations held last week. The Crown corporation seeks approval for rate hikes totaling 8.5% over the next fiscal year, citing infrastructure upgrades and operational costs.

SaskPower President and CEO Rupen Pandya presented the rate proposal to stakeholders Friday afternoon. Pandya outlined plans to invest $2.3 billion in grid modernization and renewable energy projects over the next three years. The proposed increases would take effect July 1, 2026.

Regina Chamber of Commerce executive director Mark Thompson called the timing “particularly challenging” for businesses already managing elevated operational expenses. Thompson noted that many small and medium-sized enterprises operate on thin margins and struggle to absorb significant utility cost increases.

Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities president Ray Orb raised concerns about impacts on farming operations. Orb highlighted that electricity costs for irrigation systems, grain drying, and livestock operations represent substantial portions of farm budgets. The proposed 8.5% increase translates to approximately $1,400 annually for average farm operations.

The Saskatchewan Rate Review Panel will conduct three additional public hearings in Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, and Prince Albert before making a final determination. Panel chair Michelle Winters indicated a decision will be released by April 15, 2026.

SaskPower maintains the rate increases are necessary to maintain system reliability and meet provincial emissions reduction targets. The corporation pointed to aging infrastructure requiring replacement and rising costs for materials and labor.

Opposition critics in the Legislative Assembly questioned whether the Crown corporation adequately explored cost-reduction measures before proposing rate increases. NDP energy critic Alanna Koch called for an independent audit of SaskPower’s operational efficiency.

3. Estevan Hosts Youth Curling Provincials

The community of Estevan prepares to host the Saskatchewan Youth Provincial Curling Championships starting Wednesday, February 25. Over 240 young athletes from across the province will compete at Affinity Place for provincial titles in multiple age categories.

Tournament organizer Dale Hoffmann reported that volunteer recruitment exceeded expectations, with over 150 community members signing up to assist with event operations. Hoffmann credited strong community support for making the championship possible.

The four-day tournament features competitions in Under-18, Under-15, and Under-13 divisions for both male and female teams. Championship games are scheduled for Saturday, February 28, with winners advancing to national competitions in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Curl Saskatchewan executive director Ashley Howard emphasized the importance of youth development in maintaining the sport’s strong provincial tradition. Saskatchewan teams have won 47 national youth curling championships since 1970, more than any other province.

Estevan Mayor Roy Ludwig highlighted the economic impact of hosting provincial sporting events. Ludwig estimated the championship will generate approximately $400,000 in local economic activity through accommodation, dining, and retail spending.

Local businesses including hotels, restaurants, and retailers prepared special promotions to welcome visiting athletes and families. The Estevan Chamber of Commerce coordinated downtown activities to showcase the community during the event.

Competition begins Wednesday at 9:00 AM with round-robin play. All games will be streamed live through Curl Saskatchewan’s digital platform. Admission to the venue is free for spectators.

4. REAL District Economic Impact

New economic analysis released Monday confirms the REAL District generates over $100 million annually for Regina’s local economy through events, employment, and visitor spending. The comprehensive study conducted by the University of Regina examined data from the district’s first three full years of operation.

The REAL District encompasses Mosaic Stadium, the International Trade Centre, and Evraz Place. The facility complex hosts sporting events, concerts, conventions, and agricultural exhibitions throughout the year.

Lead researcher Dr. Patricia Morrison noted that the district supports approximately 1,200 full-time equivalent jobs across various sectors including hospitality, food service, event management, and facility operations. Morrison’s team found that major events at the complex generate average spending of $2.8 million per event when accounting for direct and indirect economic impacts.

Regina Exhibition Association Limited CEO Tim Reid called the findings “validation of the significant investment made by taxpayers and stakeholders.” Reid pointed to increased event bookings and expanded programming as evidence of the district’s growing regional importance.

The study found that 62% of event attendees originate from outside Regina, with visitors staying an average of 1.8 nights in the city. Hotel occupancy rates in neighborhoods surrounding the district increased 18% since the complex opened.

Mayor Sandra Masters emphasized the district’s role in positioning Regina as a provincial hub for major events and conventions. Masters noted that several organizations previously hosting events in larger Canadian cities have relocated to Regina due to the facility’s modern amenities and competitive pricing.

The economic analysis also identified opportunities for further growth, including expanded convention programming during traditionally slower months and increased focus on multi-day sporting tournaments.

5. Regina Police Service Privacy Reform

Regina Police Chief Lorilee Davies committed to implementing stricter penalties for privacy breaches within the service following recent internal snooping incidents. Davies announced the new policy framework during a press conference Monday morning at police headquarters.

The reforms follow an internal investigation that identified three officers who inappropriately accessed confidential database records without legitimate operational reasons. The officers received suspensions ranging from five to ten days without pay.

Davies outlined a comprehensive accountability framework that includes mandatory privacy training for all officers, enhanced audit protocols for database access, and escalating disciplinary measures for violations. Repeat offenders face potential termination under the new policy.

“Public trust depends on our commitment to protecting private information,” Davies stated. “These reforms establish clear expectations and consequences for any breach of that trust.”

The Regina Police Board of Commissioners endorsed the new framework unanimously at its February meeting. Board Chair Commissioner Robert Singh praised Davies for taking decisive action to address systemic vulnerabilities.

Privacy Commissioner Ronald Kruzeniski called the reforms “a positive step forward” but indicated his office will monitor implementation closely. Kruzeniski noted that police services across Canada face ongoing challenges balancing operational information needs with privacy protections.

The new policy takes effect March 1, 2026. All Regina Police Service members will complete mandatory privacy refresher training by April 30.

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Stay informed with REGINA BUREAU’s coverage of local news and provincial developments. For more Saskatchewan stories and regional coverage, visit The Canadianist.