Trade barriers persist in Lloydminster, Canada’s border city

Lloydminster is a unique city in Canada, located on the border of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Businesses here face challenges because of the provincial border, which affects how they can sell their products. At Diamond 7 Meats in Saskatchewan, workers process and package meats. However, company president Robert Lundquist struggles to sell in Alberta because his facility is not federally certified. This certification would cost millions. "It’s very frustrating," he said, as he can see Alberta from his business. The issue is urgent, especially with U.S. tariffs creating uncertainty. Lundquist believes Canada should focus more on trade between its provinces. Recently, Prime Minister Mary Carney promised free trade between provinces and territories by Canada Day. Alice Pattison, a berry farmer, highlighted the complications of selling products across borders. While her approved kitchen allows her to sell jams and jellies in Alberta, many businesses find the rules confusing and time-consuming. Over the years, businesses in Lloydminster have dealt with complex regulations from both provinces. Blaine Stephan, former president of the Lloydminster Chamber of Commerce, shared a story about a grocery store unable to sell sandwiches across the street at its gas station due to these rules. In November, new Canadian Food Inspection Agency regulations helped to ease some trade barriers within Lloydminster city limits. Stephan noted that this change has allowed businesses to operate more freely and meet local demand. Lundquist sees the removal of trade barriers as beneficial not only for his business but for the community and country as a whole. He aims to grow his business to improve the economy in Lloydminster.