Unlocking new opportunities in Europe

  • Posted: June 12, 2026

Unlocking new opportunities in Europe
Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration Joseph Schow will travel to France and Italy to promote opportunities for Alberta in European markets.

Starting June 12, Minister Schow will meet with international partners, connect with leaders, and explore business and market opportunities in the defence and security sectors. The mission reflects Alberta’s ongoing commitment to deepening economic ties across Europe.

The mission will highlight Alberta’s competitive business and investment environment. The province’s competitive tax system, highly skilled workforce, world-class innovation, abundant natural resources, and strong research and development capacity support long-term, sustainable growth.

While in France, Minister Schow will be joined by representatives from more than 20 Alberta companies participating in Eurosatory. This premier defence and security event brings together more than 2,000 exhibitors from more than 60 countries and attracts more than 76,000 professionals. The event hosts more than 350 official delegations from about 90 countries, including defence ministries, military leaders, NATO stakeholders and senior executives from major global defence contractors.

“This is an important opportunity to position Alberta as a trusted partner in the defence and security sector while advancing trade diversification. Alberta companies bring advanced capabilities in manufacturing, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, supported by world-class research and a highly skilled workforce. This mission will help Alberta businesses strengthen partnerships, pursue new investment, and expand into Europe’s evolving defence and security market.”Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration

Alberta’s government works with national and international partners to help Alberta businesses access new markets, attract investment and build resilient global trade relationships. Government-led trade missions play a key role in supporting export diversification and positioning Alberta companies for success on the world stage. Mission expenses will be posted on the Alberta government’s travel and expense disclosure page.

Quick facts

  • Alberta’s bilateral trade with France was about $724 million in 2025.
    • Alberta’s exports reached nearly $242 million and included canola, small turboprop engines and airplane parts.
    • Imports from France totalled $482 million – primarily turbojets, wine and herbicides.
  • Alberta-Italy trade in 2025 totalled $904 million.
    • More than $311 million in exports included mainly wheat, small gas turbines and polypropylene.
    • More than $592 million in imports included wine in small bottles, sparkling wine, miscellaneous taps and valves, and toluidines and their derivatives and salts.