
Calgary, Alberta – January 20, 2025 – With the potential for tariffs on Canadian goods from the United States as early as February 1, the Alberta Food Processors Association (AFPA) is calling on Albertans and all Canadians to take immediate action by supporting local food and beverage products. U.S. President Donald Trump recently suggested the possibility of imposing a sweeping 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods, underscoring the urgency of protecting Alberta’s companies and brands.
“Our Alberta-made companies and brands are the backbone of our local economy,” says Bianca Parsons, Executive Director of AFPA. “With potential tariffs just weeks away, it’s more important than ever for consumers to choose local. Supporting Alberta-made products directly protects our industry, secures jobs, and strengthens our communities in the face of these challenges.”
The food and beverage industry is Alberta’s second-largest manufacturing sector, generating $28 billion annually. AFPA, a non-profit organization established in 1974, proudly represents all segments of this vital sector, including growers, processors, retailers, food service buyers, and suppliers.
AFPA also emphasizes the importance of interprovincial trade to help Alberta companies reach broader Canadian markets and reduce reliance on international supply chains. Strengthening domestic trade partnerships is critical to ensuring the food and beverage industry remains competitive and resilient during these uncertain times.
To address these pressing challenges, AFPA is proud to announce that Bianca Parsons has joined the newly established Food and Beverage Canada (FBC-ABC) Working Group on Canada-US Relations. This working group is focused on intelligence sharing, unified messaging, government consultations, and advocacy initiatives to protect and promote Canada’s food and beverage manufacturing sector, while ensuring Alberta’s priorities are strongly represented.
“As part of this working group, I am committed to advocating for Alberta’s food and beverage industry and collaborating with national and provincial stakeholders to navigate the complexities of international trade,” says Parsons. “With the possibility of tariffs looming, I look forward to continued dialogue with the Government of Alberta to protect our local companies and ensure the future of our made-in-Alberta brands.”
Join us in celebrating what it means to be Made in Alberta, and discover how buying Alberta-made products can make a real difference in our communities. By purchasing local, you are directly supporting Alberta’s growers, farmers, producers, and processors. It supports our economy, builds up our communities, and helps ensure a sustainable and prosperous future. When we choose local, we support our neighbours.
AFPA encourages all Albertans to stay informed and support local by following its social media channels for updates on trade developments and industry initiatives. The time to act is now. Every local purchase helps safeguard Alberta’s economy and the future of its food and beverage sector.
AFPA Executive Director, Bianca Parsons, appeared on CBC radio to discuss how tariffs would affect the food and beverage industry on January 23rd. Listen to the Interview