Alberta Premier Danielle Smith will join her fellow Canadian premiers in Washington, D.C. this week to push for solutions that will repair Canada’s strained trade relationship with the United States.
The trip, scheduled from Tuesday til Tuesday, is part of a Council of the Federation mission focused on engaging with U.S. lawmakers and industry leaders.
Smith plans to emphasize the negative impact of tariffs on both Canadian and American businesses, workers, and industries while advocating for a more collaborative economic approach.
“The past few weeks have marked a pivotal time in the historic partnership that has bridged our two nations for generations,” Smith said.
“I was, like all Canadians, deeply disappointed by President Donald Trump’s decision to announce damaging tariffs, but I am encouraged by the decision to pause tariffs for 30 days and the progress the pause represents.”
Smith said she looks forward to meeting with U.S. decision-makers to help deescalate tensions, work toward shared goals, and restore a mutually beneficial trade relationship. The mission will also provide an opportunity for Alberta to highlight its contributions to border security and economic growth.
The trip comes as the U.S. has announced 25% tariffs on most Canadian goods and a 10% tariff on Canadian energy exports. In response, Canada imposed retaliatory tariffs on C$155 billion worth of U.S. exports. However, both sets of tariffs have been paused for at least 30 days as diplomatic discussions continue.
Alberta, Canada’s second-largest provincial exporter to the U.S., plays a critical role in the cross-border economy. In 2023, Alberta’s exports to the U.S. totaled C$156 billion, with energy products accounting for more than 82% of those exports. Meanwhile, Alberta imported approximately C$25.8 billion worth of U.S. goods, including energy, machinery, and vehicles.
Beyond trade, Smith will highlight Alberta’s C$29 million border security plan, which includes a new sheriffs unit, a 51-officer Interdiction Patrol Team, four patrol dogs, and 10 weather surveillance drones.
The Council of the Federation, established in 2003, consists of Canada’s 13 provincial and territorial premiers. It aims to enhance collaboration among provinces, territories, and the federal government to address key issues affecting Canadians.
Smith will be traveling with five staff members, and mission expenses will be disclosed publicly.