Saskatchewan is still on the outside of a Western Canadian trade deal looking in — but that could change, the provincial government says.

British Columbia and Alberta signed an agreement earlier this year aimed at breaking down the barriers for businesses and workers in both provinces.

The opposition Saskatchewan Party accused the government of missing the boat and and has been urging it to join the deal.

Government Relations Minister Harry Van Mulligen said after an initial examination of the deal, he doesn't see any obvious downsides.

For instance,  the deal doesn't interfere with B.C.'s ability to run its Crown corporations — something Saskatchewan would want.

The main advantage would be that businesses and workers would have fewer restrictions when it comes to working in either province.

Van Mulligen said Saskatchewan is now committed to studying the deal in depth. He expects a decision next year on whether it will join.