LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Lethbridge Region Economic Resilience Task Force continues to make strides in
addressing the economic challenges posed by the U.S. tariffs on Canadian exports. Our region, which relies
heavily on the agriculture, manufacturing and logistics industries, is ranked 10th most vulnerable in Canada
to these tariffs by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
Since its formation in February, the Task Force has focused on identifying and implementing strategies to
mitigate the challenges faced by the southwest Alberta economy, including:
- Engaging in conversations with local MLAs and MPs to address concerns related to the tariffs.
- Hosting a planning session with partners and supporting organizations to guide future activities.
- Addressing tariff impacts at the Southern Alberta Economic Summit and the Lethbridge Chamber
of Commerce quarterly meeting in March and presenting to Community Futures Crowsnest Pass in
April. - Announcing the results of a Trade Area Study to better understand regional trade opportunities and
challenges.
The Task Force’s goals aim to address immediate economic challenges and build long-term resilience for
the region. These goals include:
- Advocate for the reduction of interprovincial trade barriers to ease the movement of goods and
- services across borders.
- Attract investment by promoting initiatives such as Canada’s Premier Food Corridor, Canada’s
Western Gateway, and the Southern Alberta Investment and Trade Initiative. - Simplify business operations by advocating for the reduction of regulatory red tape across all
sectors. - Support local entrepreneurs and businesses, ensuring they have the resources to grow and thrive.
- Strengthen the region’s visitor economy by continuing to offer exceptional experiences and
services for tourists. - Highlight the economic contribution of post-secondary institutions, which drive innovation and
supply skilled talent to local industries.
Task Force members are united to identify areas of growth that will ensure our economy remains strong
and diverse. As the Lethbridge region has weathered economic storms before, including the BSE (mad
cow) crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, our communities have the resilience and collaborative spirit to
thrive through this challenging time.
The Task Force’s goals are clear: to leverage the region’s strengths and to explore opportunities for growth
and investment.
The community is also encouraged to contribute to the tariff response through simple, but impactful
actions. Purchasing Canadian-made products, shopping locally and choosing local experiences all
contribute to building long-term resilience for southwest Alberta.
Additionally, U.S. visitors remain an important source of revenue for the region. As we enter the peak
season for tourism in southwestern Alberta, the Task Force continues to emphasize the importance of
welcoming visitors from across the border, with the understanding that a positive experience can help
strengthen cross-border relationships and boost our tourism sector.
Moving forward, the Task Force remains fully committed to ensuring that southwest Alberta not only
survives this disruption but emerges stronger, more resilient and better positioned for long-term growth.
Background:
The Lethbridge Region Economic Resilience Task Force was formed in February 2025 in response to the
U.S. tariffs imposed on Canadian exports. The Task Force is a coalition of local organizations who are
committed to working collaboratively to ensure the region remains strong, competitive and resilient in the
face of external disruptions. Members meet regularly to coordinate efforts, identify key priorities and take
action to support the economic health of southwest Alberta.
Partner Organizations:
- Economic Development Lethbridge
- University of Lethbridge
- Lethbridge Polytechnic
- SouthGrow Regional Economic Development Initiative
- Alberta Southwest Economic Development Initiative
- Community Futures Lethbridge Region
- Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce
- Lethbridge Construction Association
- Tourism Lethbridge
Supporters:
- City of Lethbridge
- Lethbridge County
- Prairies Economic Development Canada
- Travel Alberta
- Tourism Industry Association of Alberta
For more information contact:
Lethbridge Region Economic Resilience Task Force
Trevor Lewington
CEO, Economic Development Lethbridge
Trevor@chooselethbridge.ca
403 330 3701
