The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce convened business leaders and stakeholders for a roundtable discussion focused on Canada–U.S. trade, investment, and economic cooperation. The conversation explored the real-world impacts of policy uncertainty, tariffs, and cross‑border rhetoric on Edmonton and Alberta businesses, while also highlighting long‑term optimism rooted in energy, innovation, and bilateral collaboration.
The insights gathered will help inform conversations with policy teams in Ottawa and Washington by sharing tangible examples of how decisions are affecting businesses on the ground.
Here are our insights.
Business uncertainty is the number one concern.
Across sectors, uncertainty was identified as the most pressing issue facing businesses today. Shifting trade rules, tariff threats, and unclear timelines are undermining confidence and making it harder for firms to plan, invest, and grow. For companies operating on both sides of the border, unpredictability is imposing real and rising costs.
Tariffs are forcing market shifts, not protecting supply chains.
Participants shared examples of highly specialized steel manufacturing where there is no viable Canadian alternative. A 25 per cent tariff in these cases does not incentivize domestic production but instead forces businesses to seek entirely new international markets: losing North American jobs in the process. For CUSMA compliant companies, ongoing exposure to Section 232 measures continues to distort trade and add cost without improving resilience.
Energy remains a cornerstone of long-term optimism.
Despite near term challenges, Alberta’s energy sector continues to be viewed as a critical source of long-term optimism for North American economic security. Opportunities to better connect discussions around energy exports with emerging and regulated industries were identified as a major area for future collaboration. Amplifying positive business stories from Alberta and keeping optimism high is key to long term relational success.
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Have your say.
The Edmonton Chamber wants to hear from you. What are the top issues and priorities for your business? Start the conversation by writing to policy@edmontonchamber.com
