Business · Trade · 20 hrs ago

Alberta farmers face trade and transport questions if province separates

Alberta farmers face trade and transport questions if province separates

Alberta farmers are concerned that separation from Canada could make it harder to move their crops and livestock.

The province is landlocked, and much of Western Canada’s grain is shipped by rail to the port of Vancouver for export.

Farmers are unsure whether British Columbia would give an independent Alberta access to ports or whether routes through the United States could handle the exports.

Alberta’s agricultural industry also depends on trade with other provinces and international markets.

Separation could require new agreements on transport and trade, and a University of Calgary economist has warned of possible border controls, trade barriers and higher business costs.

These concerns come as farmers face rising costs for fertilizer and diesel.

On Oct.

19, Albertans are due to vote on whether the province should remain in Canada or take the next step toward a possible separation referendum.

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