Key economic partners meet to discuss tariffs. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By Haven Thibert

Lethbridge business leaders discuss trade, tariffs and economic growth

Mar 27, 2025 | 12:34 PM

Business and economic leaders gathered Thursday morning in Lethbridge to discuss trade policies, investment opportunities, and economic vulnerabilities.

This is in response to the tariffs set to be imposed on April 2 by U.S. President Donald Trump and the tariffs imposed on canola oil from China.

The meeting, hosted by the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce, featured industry experts and policymakers addressing the impact of tariffs, workforce development, and regional investment strategies.

Graphs at economic meeting. (Photo:Lethbridge News Now)

Trevor Lewington, CEO of Economic Development Lethbridge, said tariffs on Canadian exports could have significant economic consequences. He noted that policies such as “Build American Buy America” could reduce Canada’s GDP by as much as four per cent.

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Lewington also highlighted the growing affordability challenges in Lethbridge, noting that rental prices have risen. He said rising costs, combined with issues with hiring in key industries, are putting pressure on the local workforce and making it more difficult for employers.

With ongoing trade tensions affecting Canada’s exports, Lewington suggested strengthening trade relationships with Europe to help diversify markets and reduce reliance on the U.S. and China.

Charlene Scheffelmair, a partner at Davidson & Williams LLP and chair of Economic Development Lethbridge, said the region must take a “thoughtful, proactive and louder” approach to the impending tariffs. She pointed to industries and companies such as the railway and the agriculture sector as key drivers in attracting investors.

According to a report from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Lethbridge will be one of the Canadian cities most affected by tariffs. Annual exports from the city are over $2 billion, or just over $15,000 per capita.

According to the report, 91.7 per cent of all goods exported from the Lethbridge area goes to the United States, making up 19.4 per cent of the city’s GDP.

Read more: Lethbridge would be among the hardest-hit Canadian cities from tariffs: report | CHAT News Today

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