Western Canada’s Global Access Hub

Benefitting from direct access to the US and easy access to the Pacific Rim and Europe, Alberta leads the country in exports. In 2019, the province had the second-highest exports per capita at $26,772, well above the Canadian average of $14,483.

Through 15 free trade agreements, Canada has preferred market access to 51 foreign countries.

These agreements cover a market of over 1.5 billion potential consumers with a combined GDP of $49.3 trillion USD.

Alberta has three international airports with on-site customs located in Edmonton, Calgary and Fort McMurray.

The Edmonton International Airport (EIA) is Canada’s largest airport by area and is home to world-class cargo operations. As the gateway to Canada’s north, EIA is fully integrated into the region’s logistics network and features industrial land dedicated to agri-business, logistics and distribution, aerospace and aviation, and advanced manufacturing.

To the south, the Calgary International Airport is one of the fastest growing cargo airports in Canada. Over 75% of all Alberta’s air cargo shipments are transported through Calgary which provides access to the US — the world’s largest industrial and consumer market.

Learn more about Alberta’s aviation and logistics capabilities.

Alberta is served by the two most important transcontinental freight transportation players in Canada. Canadian Pacific Railway and Canadian National Railway operate approximately 7,000 route miles in Alberta and transport 66 million tonnes in and out of the province.

Alberta’s extensive rail network not only allows market access across North America, but also to Asian markets. The Port of Vancouver and Port of Prince Rupert, two of Canada’s largest ports, offer regular departures to major markets including China, Japan, South Korea and India.

Alberta’s extensive network of pipelines, highways and telecommunications infrastructure are also attractive to companies looking to do business globally.

In 2019, over $630 million was invested into Alberta communications networks.

Alberta has a strong global network due to the multinational companies that operate in the province. There is an innate supportive culture of Albertans connecting businesses and communities.

With over 180 different languages or dialects spoken by Albertans, we embrace diversity and welcome businesses and talent to move here.

Invest Alberta’s Global Team play a vital role in strengthening Alberta’s presence globally. Staff in our international locations are bilingual, experts in their local economy, and knowledgeable about the latest developments in Alberta.

Please see our Global Teams for more information.