We had the pleasure of interviewing Bin Lau at a 2025 event at the Gatton College of Business and Economics. Bin Lau, representing the Canadian province of Alberta, emphasizes that the Canadian and U.S. economies are the most integrated in the world, with supply chains so deep that vehicles and agricultural products often cross the border numerous times during production. He highlights Alberta's significant scale, noting that the province is equal in size to Texas and serves as a critical partner in North American energy security. Alberta currently provides 56% of all U.S. crude oil imports, a volume larger than the combined exports of Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq multiplied by two. This energy relationship directly impacts Kentucky, as Marathon refineries utilize Alberta crude to power the state's vehicles and tractors.

Beyond energy, Lau points to the cattle and beef industry as a primary example of economic integration, where livestock move freely across the border based on market and environmental needs. He asserts that Alberta's oil reserves are the fourth largest globally and are managed within a transparent, ethical, and highly regulated jurisdiction. The trade partnership is mutually beneficial, as Alberta often sells crude at a discount, allowing U.S. refineries to triple its value through processing. Ultimately, Lau's mission is to raise awareness of these vital links to ensure continued collective prosperity and economic development.

From all of us here at the World Trade Center, Kentucky's this Global Trade Adventure Podcast. Thanks for listening. And when you're ready to engage in international business, we're connecting businesses globally.

To Learn More:

Website: www.alberta.ca/international-offices-united-states

Upcoming WTCKY EVENTS:

· 01/29/26 – Solving Hard Problems with AI

· 02/03/26 – Global Executive Forum: Expanding Kentucky's Reach in the UAE Market

· 02/10/26 – Kentucky Industry Legislative Reception

· 04/14/26 – 04/16/26 – International Trade Certification

· 10/12/26 - 10/21/26 – Discover Beautiful Ireland with WTCKY

The next episode of our podcast will launch on 01/27/25. Thank you for listening. Be sure to follow This Global Trade Adventure on your favorite podcast platform, or at www.WTCKY.com/podcast.

We hope you enjoyed this episode. Our schedule is to publish a new episode on the 2nd Monday of each month.

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