Chamber Statement, Federal, Policy

The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce is deeply concerned by U.S.A President-elect Donald Trump’s recent announcement about the imposition of a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico. The proposed tariff escalation poses a significant threat to the economic health of Edmonton, Alberta, and Canada at large, and we urgently call on the Government of Canada to take swift and decisive action in collaboration with the provinces to engage the incoming U.S. administration before these tariffs take effect. 

As one of Canada's largest trade hubs, Edmonton’s economy is intricately tied to the cross-border trade relationship with the United States. Our city’s manufacturing, energy, and transport sectors are deeply dependent on U.S. markets. The proposed tariffs would lead to higher costs for Edmonton-based businesses and consumers, disrupt vital supply chains, and diminish our competitive position in North American and global markets. 

As one of Canada’s largest trade hubs, Edmonton’s economy is closely tied to cross-border trade with the United States, particularly in manufacturing, energy, and transportation. These industries rely heavily on U.S. markets, and the proposed tariffs would increase costs for local businesses and consumers, disrupt essential supply chains, and weaken Edmonton’s competitive position in North American and global markets. 

In 2023, Alberta exported $153B worth of products to the U.S. accounting for a substantial portion of our province’s GDP. The 25% tariff would lead to increased costs for U.S. and Canadian businesses and consumers alike, impacting the competitiveness and viability of local business.  

According to a recent report from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the imposition of such tariffs could reduce Canadian real income by up to 1.5% and productivity by 1.6%. These impacts would ripple through Edmonton’s economy, with severe consequences such as, job losses, decreased investments, and slower economic growth. Retaliatory tariffs could exacerbate these challenges, escalating tensions and undermining the strong trade relationships that have benefited both countries for decades.  

We urge the Government of Canada to immediately engage with the incoming U.S. administration to address these issues before any tariffs are imposed. This includes leveraging diplomatic channels and working in collaboration with the provinces to protect the livelihoods of Canadian workers and businesses. We believe that Canada must work to emphasize the mutual benefits of the Canada-U.S. trade relationship, underscoring the importance of cross-border economic cooperation in sectors critical to both economies.