Smith, Ford push for more Canadian energy exports as trade tensions reshape strategy

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 29, 2026

Photo Courtesy: CBC News

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Ontario Premier Doug Ford are putting energy and resource development at the centre of discussions about Canada’s economic future, as the country continues to navigate trade tensions with the United States.

The two premiers shared the stage in Calgary to discuss how Canada can get more of its oil and other natural resources to domestic and international markets, particularly as global politics and trade relationships continue to shift.

For Smith, expanding access to markets outside the United States remains a key priority. Her government has pushed for more Alberta oil to reach the British Columbia coast, creating greater access to Asian markets.

Smith has also opposed using Alberta oil as leverage in the ongoing tariff dispute with U.S. President Donald Trump. Ford has said he does not agree that oil should be completely off the table, although both premiers support increasing the movement of energy within Canada.

The discussion comes as Canada faces pressure to reduce its reliance on the U.S. market while strengthening internal trade and infrastructure. The premiers have both argued that expanding energy transportation within Canada could give producers more options.

Their meeting also comes amid a broader debate over Alberta’s place within Canada. Alberta is scheduled to hold a referendum on October 19 asking voters whether the province should remain in Canada or proceed toward another binding referendum on separation.

Smith has said she plans to vote for Alberta to remain in Canada, while maintaining that long-standing tensions with Ottawa over federal policies helped create the political pressure behind the referendum. She has also pointed to what she describes as a more cooperative relationship with the federal government under Prime Minister Mark Carney.

For Ford, the message in Calgary was centered on national unity. He told Albertans that Canada needs to remain united as the country works to develop its resources and strengthen its economy.

The energy debate therefore extends beyond Alberta and Ontario. As Canada reassesses its trade strategy, the push for new markets, stronger domestic infrastructure and greater control over resource exports is becoming part of a larger conversation about how the country responds to changing relations with the United States.