Responding to tariff threats
The evolving tariff threats in Canada could have a significant impact right here in Lethbridge.
The City of Lethbridge is committed to protecting our local economy by working with our regional partners to:
- Attract new investment
- Support continued growth & expansion
- Retain and support existing business
What impacts could we see?
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce lists Lethbridge as the 10th most vulnerable Canadian city (out of 41) to potential U.S. tariffs. This statistic measures the Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) which includes both the City and surrounding rural areas. The anticipated tariff impact on agriculture and manufacturing as well as our proximity to the US board increase the risk to our region.
As an organization, the City of Lethbridge spent approximately $2.5 million last year on goods and services from the United States. This represents less than 4 per cent of the City’s annual procurement spend.
How are we responding?
- The City of Lethbridge is supporting the Lethbridge Region Economic Resilience Task Force.
o The recently formed Task Force was created among regional partners. The vision is to strengthen and diversify the economy of southwest Alberta while building resilience in the business community that can withstand and thrive through disruption and protect our quality of life.
- Excluding U.S. suppliers from City procurements
Based on the provincial directive to prioritize the procurement of goods and services from Alberta companies, Canadian companies and countries that have a free trade agreement with Canada, the City of Lethbridge is no longer accepting procurement contract bids from any U.S. suppliers of goods and services.
- Reviewing City operations
City administration is reviewing City operating costs and revenues to forecast the impact of direct tariffs and indirect economic impacts to City operations. This includes reviewing revenue expectations, estimating cost increases on supplies and services from tariffs and counter tariffs and reducing non-essential expenditures.
Resources
Contact Us
City Hall
910 4 Avenue South
Lethbridge, AB T1J 0P6
Phone: 311
or 403-320-3111 (if outside of Lethbridge)