DesignPicsInc / Depositphotos.com
Alberta looks beyond U.S. as Trump tariffs open door to new trade opportunities
EDMONTON — As the United States escalates its trade war with China, Alberta is pushing forward with a global economic strategy aimed at reducing its reliance on U.S. markets and expanding international trade relationships.
On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 145 per cent, a move that is sending shockwaves through global markets. But Alberta officials say it’s also creating opportunities for the province to deepen trade ties with Asia and other key regions.
“During challenging economic times, Alberta is strengthening its economy by opening new global markets, eliminating trade barriers, and securing investments that generate jobs and ensure sustained growth,” said Matt Jones, Alberta’s minister of jobs, economy and trade.
In 2024, Alberta’s total trade with non-U.S. countries reached nearly $36 billion, an increase of 10 per cent over the previous year. Over the past two years, exports to Central, South and East Asia, South America and Europe have all climbed, according to government figures.
The province is doubling down on this approach in its 2025-26 budget, doubling the Alberta Export Expansion Program, which supports small- and medium-sized businesses and non-profits in promoting their products globally. Last year, more than 450 Alberta companies participated in 28 government-led trade missions to destinations including Japan, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, and Germany.
“Expanding our markets is critical to the future of oil and gas in Alberta and we are actively working towards this,” said Brian Jean, Alberta’s minister of energy and minerals. “Countries like Japan and Korea view our natural gas, hydrogen and ammonia as key to their future economies and transitioning from thermal coal.”
The Alberta Petroleum Marketing Commission is exploring new opportunities to sell oil and gas across Asia and Europe, Jean added.
While the province maintains strong trade ties with the U.S., it is also focused on reducing vulnerability to shifting American trade policies. Since 2019, Alberta has eliminated nearly 80 per cent of its province-specific exceptions under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, positioning itself as a national leader in internal trade.
“Alberta is bulldozing internal trade barriers – turning roadblocks into smooth highways for Alberta industry,” Jones said.
Meanwhile, international investors are also taking notice. Through its Investment and Growth Fund, the province says it has attracted more than $820 million in capital and created 1,250 jobs, including major deals with companies like Lufthansa Technik and NewCold.
“NewCold’s multi-million investment is a direct result of Alberta’s targeted approach to attracting global businesses,” said Jonas Swarttouw, executive vice-president commercial for NewCold. “With this support, we’re building one of the most advanced cold storage facilities in North America – right here in Alberta.”
Officials say the province’s economic strategy is rooted in three pillars: diversifying trade, breaking down barriers, and attracting investment. Together, they aim to build a more resilient and self-sustaining economy.
“Alberta’s economy is built to last,” the government said in a statement. “This isn’t just about surviving uncertain global trade winds — it’s about thriving despite them.”
Comments