Skip to content

Edmonton Chamber Statement on U.S. Tariffs

Protecting Our Economy, Strengthening Canadian Trade

Our Statement

Last updated: February 3, 2025 at 2:53 PM MST

EDMONTON, AB – The U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods are a direct hit to Edmonton businesses. A 25 percent tariff on most exports and a 10 percent tariff on oil will raise costs, disrupt supply chains, and put jobs at risk. Businesses are already facing tough choices—whether to absorb the costs, pass them on to consumers, or relocate their operations to survive. 

We are encouraged by the 30-day pause on the tariffs, however we will continue to monitor the changes as they occur

“These tariffs are not about border security. They create uncertainty, drive up costs, and put both Canadian and American businesses in a lose-lose situation,” said Doug Griffiths, President & CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. “Our members are telling us they’re worried, and rightfully so. Some are looking at delaying investments, others at cutting costs wherever they can. And for those that rely on U.S. markets, they’re being forced to make impossible decisions in real-time.” 

The Chamber is taking action. We are working closely with business leaders, policymakers, and our counterparts across Canada and the U.S. to minimize the impact of these tariffs and push for solutions. One of the most effective ways to strengthen Canada’s economy is to support domestic businesses and remove trade barriers between provinces. Right now, Alberta businesses face more restrictions selling within Canada than they do selling to the United States. That must change. 

Edmonton businesses are resilient, but resilience isn’t about waiting for someone else to fix the problem,” said Doug Griffiths,It’s about taking action. We need all levels of government to step up, clear the roadblocks to interprovincial trade, and ensure businesses have the stability they need to grow and compete.” 

The Edmonton Chamber is pleased by the strong leadership shown by Premier Smith and our provincial government in responding to U.S. tariffs. We echo Alberta’s commitment to diplomatic efforts in the U.S. to reverse harmful trade policies, collaboration with other provinces and the federal government on a strategic tariff response, and the call to expand trade infrastructure and relationships globally to reduce reliance on a single market.

The Edmonton Chamber is on top of this issue. We are working with Chambers across Canada and the U.S. to keep businesses informed, advocate for open trade, and push for solutions that protect our economy. If your business is affected, reach out—we are here to support you. Statistics Canada has estimated that removing these barriers could boost Canada’s GDP by as much as seven percent, which could be worth $200 billion to our economy.

This is a critical moment, but Edmonton’s business community has faced challenges before. We will meet this one head-on, and we will come out stronger. 

How Can You Help: It's Easier Than You Think

Show your support for local businesses by adding our digital sticker to your website. This badge signals to customers that you’re an Edmonton-based business and encourages them to support local. Let’s strengthen our community together—download yours today here!

2

Share your challenges with us. Your insights help shape our advocacy efforts and strengthen our push for open trade and policy solutions. Reach out to our dedicated policy team at policy@edmontonchamber.com. Interested in telling your story to the media? Reach out to our communications team at media@edmontonchamber.com.

4

Brought to you by Burke Group, showcase your commitment to local business with our “Hey, I'm Made in Edmonton” sticker. Schedule a convenient pick-up or request a drop-off, and start displaying your support for Edmonton’s business community today! Reach out to membership@edmontonchamber.com to schedule a time.

*This is available to Chamber members only. 

3

Connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and fellow business owners through Chamber events and initiatives designed to support businesses during uncertain times. Take a look at our events here, and know that our Membership & Engagement team can connect you to other businesses in Edmonton, reach out to them at membership@edmontonchamber.com.

In the News

For further information or to discuss this issue, please contact: 

Akanksha Bhatnagar, Director of Communications and Public Relations 

Phone: 780-616-7153 | Email: abhatnagar@edmontonchamber.com 

Arrow 2-Teal
Scroll To Top