Think-tank warns Alberta secession could cost $200 billion and threaten its economy

The Canada West Foundation released a study titled “Alberta in Confederation” that puts the price tag for Alberta’s independence at a minimum of $200 billion, with ongoing annual costs exceeding $50 billion. The report outlines financial burdens including assuming a share of the federal net debt, new trade negotiations and the loss of federal transfers for health, child care and other services. It warns that the province’s economy could contract, jobs could disappear and investment might be deterred.

Additional concerns involve complex constitutional talks, Indigenous rights negotiations and the ability to attract enough workers and students from outside the province. The findings arrive less than two months before the Oct. 19 referendum on remaining in Canada or holding a second, binding secession vote, and have been met with criticism from separatist leaders.