The province is taking immediate and practical steps to give qualified Alberta and Canadian businesses a greater opportunity to compete for government contracts. With tariffs driving up costs and creating uncertainty, these changes will help keep investment, jobs and economic activity in Canada, while continuing to protect value for taxpayers and reliable service delivery.
Existing contracts will be reviewed before renewal or expiry to identify viable Albertan or Canadian alternatives where it makes sense.
“Alberta continues to be a leader on this front because our focus is on what we can control – creating opportunities for businesses to succeed. When government spends taxpayers' money, those businesses deserve a fair shot at earning that business. We're putting local businesses first, supporting Canadian suppliers and making sure more of our government spending helps create opportunities and jobs here at home.”
Qualified Alberta businesses will be given priority consideration for purchases below New West Partnership Trade Agreement thresholds. Qualified Canadian businesses will be given priority consideration for purchases at or above those thresholds but below the lowest applicable international trade agreement thresholds. These measures will protect value for Albertans and be applied within Alberta’s legal and trade obligations.
This approach provides greater flexibility, supports local and Canadian economic activity and ensures procurement remains fair, competitive and responsible.
Alberta continues to oppose tariffs and retaliatory measures that harm businesses, workers and the economy. Work will continue with provincial and federal partners to support workers impacted by tariffs and advocate for a path back to tariff-free trade. Local businesses and industry are encouraged to follow a similar process to keep investment in Canada.
Businesses affected by tariffs can access provincial resources and share their experiences through the government’s new tariff-related resources for Alberta businesses page.
Quick facts
- The new measures will apply to future procurements. They are not for retroactive or in-progress application. Existing vendor contracts will be reviewed before renewal or expiry to determine whether viable Alberta or Canadian alternatives exist.
- Alberta’s government procures about $7 billion per year on goods, services and construction to support the delivery of programs and services. About 95 per cent is directed towards Canadian businesses, including 72 per cent towards Alberta-based businesses.
- The United States is Alberta’s largest trading partner, with Alberta exporting more than $152 billion in goods to the U.S. in 2025.