What’s the biggest issue generating uncertainty for Alberta business operators today?

It’s not tariffs and the trade war between Canada and the United States. And it’s not the effect of rising inflation and higher input costs as energy prices escalate.

Nope — it’s the separation debate.

“In the current business environment, the Alberta referendum and discussions about separation are creating the greatest uncertainty for businesses,” says a report by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce.

A new survey of provincial business owners and operators released by the group this week shows one in four identify the Alberta referendum and discussions about separation as creating the greatest uncertainty for their company.

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That’s double the number who cited the next top issues — Canada-U.S. trade, federal government policies and inflation, which each sat at 12 per cent.

“It’s more imminent because it’s happening right away. And there’s going to be a decision one way or another,” Alberta Chambers of Commerce CEO Shauna Feth said in an interview.

“Businesses are really trying to think through the implications and the strategy around that.”

The survey found 44 per cent of respondents say the discussion over Alberta separation is now affecting their companies — double the level reported in the summer of 2025 — with almost all respondents saying the effect is negative.

And slightly more than........

© Calgary Herald