Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Alberta government is introducing changes to its procurement approach to give qualified businesses in the province and across Canada more opportunities to secure government contracts, as rising tariffs continue to create uncertainty and increase costs for businesses.
The measures are intended to keep more public spending within Canada, support employment and strengthen economic activity while maintaining competition, value for taxpayers and dependable service delivery.
Under the new approach, existing government contracts will be examined before they expire or come up for renewal. The review will identify whether suitable Alberta-based or Canadian suppliers can provide the required goods and services.
Premier Danielle Smith said the province wants to ensure local businesses have a fair opportunity to compete for government work and benefit from public spending.
“When government spends taxpayers’ money, those businesses deserve a fair shot at earning that business,” Smith said, adding that the policy aims to support Canadian suppliers and create more opportunities and jobs within the country.
Procurement priorities based on contract value
The province will apply different priority considerations depending on the value of a purchase and the applicable trade agreement thresholds.
Qualified Alberta businesses will receive priority consideration for purchases below the thresholds set by the New West Partnership Trade Agreement. For purchases meeting or exceeding those limits, but remaining below the lowest applicable international trade agreement threshold, qualified Canadian businesses will receive priority consideration.
The government said the changes will operate within Alberta’s legal and trade obligations. Procurement decisions will also continue to follow principles of fairness, competition and responsible spending.
Support amid tariff pressures
Alberta continues to oppose tariffs and retaliatory measures, saying they create difficulties for businesses, workers and the wider economy. The province will work with federal and provincial partners to assist workers affected by tariffs and advocate for a return to tariff-free trade.
The government is also encouraging local companies and industries to consider similar approaches that help retain investment and economic activity in Canada.
Businesses dealing with tariff-related challenges can access provincial support and share their experiences through the government’s newly introduced tariff resources page for Alberta businesses.
