In 2025, trade agreements between Calgary-based firms and the United States plummeted to unprecedented lows, a direct consequence of tariffs implemented by former President Donald Trump. Data released by Calgary Economic Development (CED) reveals that less than 25% of the trade deals secured last year were with American partners, marking a significant decline from 35% in 2024. This downturn represents the smallest proportion of U.S. trade deals recorded by the city’s business development arm, according to officials.
Tariff Impact on Trade Relationships
Brad Parry, president of CED, highlighted the tariffs and increasing unpredictability in the American market as primary factors behind this decline. “We’re still collaborating with our U.S. partners; they remain a vital trading ally,” he stated. However, he emphasised the importance of broadening the market landscape, suggesting that it is crucial to explore new opportunities for local businesses to sell their goods and services.
CED’s report indicates that companies within its network have successfully expanded their reach into 21 countries across six continents, securing a total of 45 trade agreements that generated a remarkable $60 million in revenue—a staggering 500% increase compared to the previous year. This impressive growth reflects a strategic pivot as businesses look beyond traditional markets.
Diverse Sectors Driving International Expansion
The trade deals encompass a wide range of sectors, illustrating Calgary’s diverse economic landscape. Key industries involved include clean energy, advanced manufacturing, agri-food, digital technologies, life sciences, and aerospace. Notably, the majority of new trade partnerships were established in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and Oceania.
Parry noted that this international expansion results in job creation back home. “If local companies have more capacity and clientele, it translates to increased production and the necessity to hire more staff,” he explained. CED reported that 187 new jobs were created through business expansions in 2025, underscoring the positive impact of these global ventures.
Success Stories from Calgary’s Global Ventures
Among the companies making significant strides is ZeroSound Systems, which utilises a proprietary digital platform to mitigate large-scale industrial noise affecting nearby communities. Founder and CEO Norm Bogner shared that the company has been eyeing international markets from its inception. Their technology has found applications within the U.S. oil and gas sector and utility markets in Latin America. Thanks to support from CED, ZeroSound has successfully established a regional foothold in Australia and the UAE over the past year.
“We comply with CUSMA, so the tariff situation hasn’t yet affected us, but we remain vigilant,” Bogner remarked. He added that the demand in new markets has been bolstered by the current circumstances in the U.S., prompting a quicker shift in focus.
Casa Bonita Foods, known for its corn tortilla chips, also reported a successful year, securing new trading partners in Japan, Korea, Thailand, and Australia following a trade mission organised by CED. Director Sergio Llerena noted, “Once we realised our neighbours were becoming less reliable, we began searching for new commercial partners.”
The Role of Trade Accelerator Programme
A significant driver of this international focus is CED’s Trade Accelerator Programme (TAP), which is partially funded by the Government of Alberta. Parry indicated that in 2026, CED plans to broaden its services to facilitate faster diversification and entry into priority markets, especially amid ongoing economic fluctuations.
Why it Matters
The decline in trade deals with the U.S. and the subsequent push towards global markets highlight a pivotal moment for Calgary’s economy. As local companies adapt to shifting geopolitical landscapes, their success in securing international partnerships not only mitigates the risks associated with reliance on a single market but also fosters job creation and economic resilience. This strategic pivot may serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, underscoring the importance of adaptability in today’s ever-evolving global trade environment.
