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EDMONTON — Alberta is looking to strengthen its economic relationship with the United States as provincial representatives meet with state lawmakers this week to promote trade, energy and cross-border investment.
MLAs Angela Pitt, Glenn van Dijken and Chelsae Petrovic are attending the National Conference of State Legislatures Legislative Summit in Chicago from July 25 to 30.
The Alberta government says discussions will focus on barrier-free trade, secure supply chains, economic corridors and the province’s role in North American energy security.
The United States remains Alberta’s largest export market. Alberta shipped $152 billion in goods south of the border in 2025, representing nearly 86 per cent of all provincial exports.
Energy accounted for approximately $125 billion of those exports, while the U.S. was also Alberta’s largest agri-food market, purchasing $8.7 billion in products.
Van Dijken, MLA for Athabasca-Barrhead-Westlock, is participating in the organization’s Agriculture Task Force, where he is promoting Alberta’s agricultural trade and rural development interests.
“Alberta and the United States benefit from a long history of agricultural trade and cooperation,” van Dijken said. “Through discussions with state legislators and industry leaders, we will continue advocating for open markets, reliable supply chains and thriving rural communities.”
Pitt, MLA for Airdrie-East, is participating in the International Legislative Advisory Council, including policy meetings aimed at strengthening relationships between Alberta and state-level lawmakers.
“Strong relationships with our U.S. partners create opportunities for Albertans and Americans alike,” Pitt said. “This year’s conference is another important opportunity to strengthen those ties and advance shared priorities that support mutual economic growth, investment and long-term prosperity.”
Petrovic, MLA for Livingston-Macleod, is attending policy sessions and meetings focused on Alberta’s broader economic and energy priorities.
“Collaboration between Alberta and U.S. states is key to advancing our shared economic and energy interests,” Petrovic said. “Alberta has an important story to tell, and I am proud to help showcase our province as a reliable trade partner and the answer to North American energy security.”
The summit brings together lawmakers and government leaders from all 50 states, U.S. commonwealths and territories, as well as the District of Columbia.
The Alberta delegation is also scheduled to attend a reception Tuesday co-hosted by the governments of Canada, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, providing another opportunity to meet with U.S. legislators and industry representatives.
The delegation returns to Alberta on July 30. Mission expenses will be publicly disclosed by the province.
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