August 21, 2024 (Edmonton Metropolitan Region) – As the investment attraction and trade development organization for the Edmonton Metropolitan Region, Edmonton Global has deep concern over the potential for disruptions in Canada’s rail infrastructure. The Edmonton Metro Region relies heavily on efficient and reliable rail service to facilitate the flow of goods and services, both domestically and internationally. Any disruption to this critical infrastructure poses a significant risk to our Regional economy, which is built on a foundation of strong agricultural, manufacturing, and energy sectors.
A stable rail network is essential for maintaining the competitiveness of the Edmonton Metro Region, Alberta, and Canada as a whole. It ensures that our local businesses can access global markets, that our agricultural products reach consumers across Canada and internationally, and that our energy sector can continue to drive economic growth. The potential for rail stoppages creates uncertainty for businesses in our Region and could lead to delays, increased costs, and a loss of confidence from investors and trading partners.
Moreover, consistent and reliable transportation infrastructure is key to upholding the international reputation of Canada as a dependable partner in global trade. Any prolonged disruption in rail services could , where reliability and efficiency are paramount. Our international partners rely on us to deliver goods on time and at competitive prices; any failure to meet these expectations could have long-lasting effects on our trade relationships and the attractiveness of our Region to foreign investors.
We urge all stakeholders, including government, labor unions, and rail operators, to work collaboratively and expeditiously to avoid any disruptions in rail service. A stable and reliable rail system is not just a matter of convenience—it is a critical component of Canada’s economic infrastructure that underpins the prosperity of the Edmonton Metro Region and the nation as a whole.
About Edmonton Global:
The purpose of Edmonton Global is to radically transform and grow the economy of the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. We are a not-for-profit corporation founded by 14 municipalities that make up the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. Our focus is attracting foreign investment, helping Regional businesses export with the world, enhancing our Region’s global competitiveness, and bringing our Region together with a unified voice to attract the attention and interest of investors the world over.
Contact Edmonton Global:
Sherri Bouslama
Interim Lead, Brand & Communications
sbouslama@edmontonglobal.ca
780-996-1524
