Calgary among Canadian cities that could be most impacted by U.S. tariffs​on February 11, 2025 at 9:13 pm

Calgary is among the cities most vulnerable to potential tariffs by the U.S., according to a new report by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

The report used trade data from Statistics Canada to rank 41 cities based on their exposure to duties the U.S. could levy after a month-long delay that was announced at the eleventh hour.

Calgary came in second.

The city’s economy hinges on the goods it sells to the U.S., with more than 96 per cent of its exports — roughly $119 million — flowing to its southern neighbour.

The city at the top spot was Saint John, New Brunswick, home to the largest crude oil refinery in Canada — it can process more than 320,000 barrels daily and more than 80 per cent of that oil is sold south of the border. More than 96 per cent of the city’s total exports are sold to the U.S.

Lethbridge came in 10th as more than 90 per cent of its exports, mainly agricultural products, are traded in the U.S. Meanwhile, Edmonton was ranked 24th.

The report mainly ranks cities based on their trade with the U.S., leaving out some whose industries contribute to the finished product. For instance, Fort McMurray, which produces most of the oil in the province, is not included in the report; however, tariffs would also significantly hurt the town’s economy.

Brad Parry, president and CEO of the Calgary Economic Development, said in a statement before the delay on tariffs was announced that the levies would destabilize the city and the province’s economy.

“These sweeping tariffs will disrupt supply chains, increase business costs and inject instability into our economy,” he said.

“Alberta’s manufacturing, agriculture and export-driven industries — already navigating economic headwinds — will face further uncertainty, making it harder for companies to compete and grow. Small businesses, which make up almost 95 per cent of Calgary’s business environment, would be particularly vulnerable.”

The report comes as ominous clouds of tariffs continue to hang over Canada. Trump delayed sweeping levies of 25 per cent on all imports from Canada with a reduced 10 per cent duty for energy until at least March 4 following several border security commitments from both countries.

However, on Monday Trump signed executive orders to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports into the United States, including from its northern neighbour, hurting major industries in Central and Eastern Canada.

Premier Danielle Smith is now travelling back to the U.S., along with her provincial counterparts, to lobby U.S. lawmakers and industry players from moving ahead with additional duties.