A recent survey conducted by the Calgary Chamber of Commerce indicates that 50% of its members would contemplate moving their operations out of Alberta if the province were to secede from Canada. The poll, released on June 24, 2026, underscores significant apprehension within the business community regarding the economic implications of provincial sovereignty.
Poll details and methodology
The survey, which gathered responses from over 500 Chamber members, was carried out amid ongoing debates about Alberta separation. Supporters of the movement recently submitted signatures to Elections Alberta for a separation referendum, as seen in Edmonton on May 4, 2026. The poll's margin of error is plus or minus 4.3 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
Business concerns over separation
According to the Chamber, the primary reasons cited by members for considering relocation include uncertainty about trade agreements, currency stability, and access to federal programs. 'Businesses thrive on predictability, and the prospect of separation introduces significant unknowns,' said a Chamber spokesperson. The findings align with broader economic analyses warning that secession could disrupt supply chains and investment flows.
Broader context
The poll comes as Alberta's separatist movement gains traction, with a proposed referendum on the ballot. However, experts note that the business community's hesitation reflects practical challenges. 'Separation is not just a political statement; it has real economic consequences,' noted a University of Calgary economist. The Chamber plans to use these results to advocate for policies that address members' concerns while maintaining provincial unity.
