The Premier will meet with top American government leaders to discuss energy security, key bilateral trade issues and urgent cross-border supply chain issues.

Meeting American counterparts

The National Governors Association meeting is held in Washington, D.C., convening governors from across the United States and its protectorates. Canadian premiers and leaders from Mexico often attend. 

This year’s chair is Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson.

“Attending the National Governors Association meeting is an excellent opportunity to discuss key issues with American leaders. I will be there to discuss growing supply chain problems, including the U.S. and Canadian governments’ policies that have impacted many cross-border truckers, causing further damage to supply chains and higher prices for consumers. I will also continue to advocate for access to the U.S. market for our energy exports, including Line 5. Finally, I will be raising our concerns about growing U.S. protectionism, including the ‘Buy American’ initiative and softwood lumber tariffs. It’s critical for Alberta’s economy that we strongly advocate for our key interests with top American decision makers.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

Alberta trade with the United States

  • The U.S. is Alberta’s largest trading partner, and Alberta is the second-largest provincial exporter to the U.S.
  • In 2020, Alberta’s exports to the U.S. totalled C$77.5 billion and accounted for approximately 85 per cent of total provincial exports.
  • Energy products accounted for approximately C$59.2 billion, 76 per cent of Alberta’s exports to the U.S. in 2020.
  • Bilateral trade supports nearly 1.7 million jobs. Trade with Alberta supports 906,000 jobs in the U.S. while trade with the U.S. supports 785,000 jobs in Alberta.

Quick facts

  • This is the 114th annual winter meeting.
  • The meeting will be held from Jan. 28-31.
  • Sessions at the conference include:
    • K-12 Computer Science Education
    • Infrastructure
    • Bipartisan Leadership: American Excellence
    • Economic Recovery and Revitalization Task Force
    • Infrastructure Investments: Electric Vehicle Growth and Expansion
    • Community Renewal Task Force: America’s Return to Work
    • Pandemic and Disaster Response Task Force: Preparing and Responding to a Cyber Crisis

The Government of Alberta recently announced that it is opening three new trade and investment offices in the United States – in Chicago, Denver and Seattle – while expanding its office in Washington, D.C., to more effectively advance the province’s economic interests.

Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page. The estimated cost for Premier Kenney and three staff to attend is $18,425.

The Alberta government is committed to working with its national and international partners to advance shared interests that can lead to new opportunities for people and businesses in Alberta and around the world.

Itinerary for Premier Kenney

Thursday, Jan. 27
  • 6 p.m: Premier travels to Toronto and overnights

Friday, Jan. 28
  • Premier travels to Washington, D.C., and attends National Governors Association conference and other meetings

Saturday, Jan. 29
  • Premier attends the National Governors Association conference and other meetings

Sunday, Jan. 30
  • Premier attends National Governors Association conference and other meetings

Monday, Jan. 31
  • Meetings in Washington, D.C.
  • Evening return flight to Alberta

*Subject to change.