In the wake of the election of Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States, serious concerns have been raised about the potential negative impact this could have on Alberta’s largest trading partner.
the Government of Alberta It says the United States is by far the province’s largest trading partner, with exports worth more than $156 billion in 2023 alone.
Prime Minister Danielle Smith tweeted her congratulations to the new US President and Vice President early on the morning of Wednesday, November 6.
She also reminded them of the important role Alberta’s oil and natural gas plays in North America’s energy security, saying, “We look forward to strengthening Alberta’s relationships in the United States and working together with the new administration.”
However, some in the province are already raising red flags about the future of Alberta’s relationship with its American neighbours.
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“As far as economic protectionism is concerned, the debate that Donald Trump has had over tariffs — it could have a very significant impact on the entire Canadian economy,” said Lori Williams, associate professor of policy studies at MRU. “It presents major challenges both politically and economically.”
“It’s going to be an uphill battle for Canadian officials to try to prove that there are things that are in our mutual interest that justify treating Canada differently than some other countries,” Williams added.
Asked whether Trump’s outspoken support for the oil industry could lead to increased US demand for Canadian oil, Williams said: “The reality is that the United States produces more oil than it consumes, so I think Alberta will look to other markets primarily to export its needs.” “. oil.”
Williams added that other industries “such as agriculture could (also) be significantly affected by protectionist policies in the United States.”
The president of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce says Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda poses a serious threat to Alberta’s economy.
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The Calgary Chamber of Commerce reiterates its concerns about the impact of Trump’s “America First” agenda, which emphasizes self-reliance, deregulation and tariffs on goods imported from other countries.
In a statement issued after the election, Chamber President Deborah Yedlin said: “With $3.6 billion in goods and services crossing our borders every day, the Canadian economy — especially sectors like energy, agriculture and critical minerals — depends on American markets.”
“Trump’s focus on energy independence and tariffs could put Canadian exports at a disadvantage, risking billions of dollars in revenue and threatening jobs, especially in our vital energy sector,” Yedlin adds.
Yedlin is calling on the provincial and federal governments to work together on a unified “Team Canada” approach to overcome the challenges of the Trump administration.
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