Note: This piece was published on March 3, 2025 around 5p.m., and therefore may not reflect more recent developments.
As the clock ticks toward midnight, Calgary – and Canada – stand at the brink of significant economic disruption. The United States’ imposition of 25% tariffs across industries, with a potential 10% tariff on oil, threatens to reshape our regional economy. Industries that define our city – oil, agriculture, manufacturing, and small business – will feel the impact first, but ultimately, every Calgarian will experience the effects through rising costs and economic uncertainty.
This is exactly why City Council took action last week, welcoming the Calgary Chamber of Commerce and Calgary Economic Development to discuss how we can tariff-proof our city and region. These tariffs pose a serious challenge, but they also provide an opportunity: to showcase our resilience and preparedness, ensuring that Calgary is not merely a bystander but a leader in shaping its economic future.
Taking Immediate Action
With these tariffs now a reality, my top priority is to protect Calgary’s economy and its people. The road ahead will require decisive action, strategic collaboration, and strong advocacy at all levels of government.
ONE: Strengthening Business Support & Coordination
This evening, I will meet with the CEO of the Chamber of Commerce and the CEO of Calgary Economic Development to formalize the Mayor’s Tariff Advisory Group and outline next steps. Together, we will build a robust strategy to mitigate economic harm and explore local solutions to supply chain disruptions.
TWO: Engaging with Provincial Leadership
I am in the process of requesting a meeting with the Premier to discuss Alberta’s contingency plans, specifically the $4 billion allocated in last week’s budget. These funds must be used effectively to support impacted industries, rather than waiting for economic hardship to deepen. Finance Minister Nate Horner’s comments in Calgary last Friday suggested a reactive approach – I will push for immediate, proactive measures to protect Calgarians and businesses now.
THREE: Strengthening Canada’s Internal Trade
At the national level, I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Big City Mayors Caucus to push for the immediate elimination of interprovincial trade barriers. This is critical to strengthening Canada’s economic unity and ensuring businesses have more accessible, tariff-free markets within our own country.
FOUR: Building Long-Term Economic Resilience
While our immediate focus is on mitigating the impacts of these tariffs, we must also position Calgary for long-term economic strength. This is why the approval of Prairie Economic Gateway last week was so crucial. After three years of dedicated effort, this initiative will establish Calgary and Rocky View County as North America’s strongest inland port – creating new trade routes to Mexico and increasing our ability to export east-west across Canada. We are future-proofing our economy against external shocks like these tariffs.
Next Steps for Calgary City Council
City Council has also committed to concrete actions to ensure our city remains resilient in the face of these economic challenges:
ONE: Monthly updates to Council, starting in April, on tariff impacts, supply chain disruptions, and any new regulatory challenges that may negatively affect Calgary.
TWO: Reviewing and adjusting procurement policies to prioritize local, Canadian, and non-American goods and services where possible.
THREE: Expanding collaboration with regional partners, other governments, and industry associations to strengthen local supply chains.
FOUR: Streamlining business processes by working with advisory groups and civic partners, including amending bylaws if necessary.
FIVE: Advocating through the Big City Mayors Caucus for the elimination of interprovincial trade barriers to create a stronger national economy.
SIX: Factoring the impact of tariffs into City decision-making when selecting banking and investment services from non-Canadian financial institutions.
Calgary Will Lead Through This Challenge
The imposition of these tariffs is a test of our city’s economic strength, but Calgary is not waiting for the storm to pass – we are preparing to navigate it head-on. With decisive action, strong partnerships, and forward-thinking strategy, we will ensure Calgary remains a leader in economic resilience, innovation, and global trade.
We are ready. And we will stand strong.