Alberta and the Mexican state of Jalisco, located along the western edge of Mexico and the birthplace of tequila and mariachi, have shared a sister-state relationship since 1999.

Mexico is Alberta’s third-largest bilateral trading partner and is one of the province’s fastest-growing export markets. In 2021, the value of exports to Mexico was $1.5 billion, and the value of imported goods from Mexico was $1.7 billion. Mexico City is home to an Alberta international office.

“Alberta has a long history of cooperation and partnership with the Mexican state of Jalisco. By renewing this MOU, we can continue to uncover our shared challenges and opportunities for growth across a number of sectors. We can cooperate on mutually beneficial policies relating to economic diversification, agriculture and forestry. This MOU is a huge win for both of our jurisdictions and a symbol of our enduring friendship.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

Alberta and Jalisco are both committed to pursuing economic prosperity and cooperation and are recognized as centres of excellence and innovation in energy, agri-food research, forest fire management and research and development.

“Both our regions are hubs of research and innovation, especially in the agri-food sector. Our industries and post-secondary institutions are sharing information and offering made-in-Alberta solutions to solve problems and create new markets in Mexico. Our counterparts in Jalisco are doing the same, finding unique opportunities in Alberta. It all adds up to an incredibly beneficial relationship for both parties.”

Tanya Fir, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation

The MOU serves as a statement of intention by the participants and does not create any legally binding obligations.

Quick facts

  • Alberta’s International Office in Mexico City is dedicated to engaging with Mexican and Latin American policymakers, supporting export-ready Alberta companies in exploring markets to expand and promoting varied investment opportunities.

  • In 2021, top exports to Mexico included:

    • natural gas: $324 million

    • canola: $298.6 million

    • ethylene polymers: $153.7 million

    • refined petroleum: $135.5 million

    • bovine meat: $130.4 million

    • other: $405.3 million

  • In 2021, top imports from Mexico included:

    • electrical machinery and equipment: $266.5 million

    • machinery: $260.7 million

    • motor vehicles and parts : $210.5 million

    • edible fruits and nuts: $203.4 million

    • edible vegetables, roots and tubers: $152.5 million

    • rail transportation: $103 million

    • other: $467.8 million

  • Alberta’s relationship with Jalisco began with agriculture exchanges for the cattle and hog sectors in the 1990s.

  • The twinning relationship has spawned additional partnerships, including:

    • Cooperation in the development and improvement of value-added food processing.

      • Alberta’s Food Processing and Development Centre and Jalisco’s Center for Added Value have been exchanging scientific information, best practices and market intelligence on food regulations for more than a decade.

    • Collaboration in forestry and forest firefighting practices.

      • Hundreds of firefighters have participated in cross-jurisdictional training and resource sharing, and forestry conservationists have shared best practices. 

    • Student mobility and exchanges between schools and educational institutions.

      • Hundreds of students have travelled between Alberta and Jalisco to study English or Spanish, participate in school exchanges and undertake collaborative academic research.

    • Bilateral funding to support the commercialization of technology and expand products into new markets.

      • Funding has helped more than 60 companies share research and collaborate on how they can better commercialize and establish innovative practices for increased market viability.

  • Alberta and Jalisco both have growing information and communications technology sectors with international reputations for innovation.

    • Jalisco’s tech sector is particularly knowledgeable in the digital transformation of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

    • Alberta’s tech sector has expertise in clean technology, renewable energy, low-carbon electricity systems, green products and services and sustainable waste and water management.