Learn about the tariffs, their impact and how you can support our local economy.
On February 3, 2025, Canada and the United States agreed to delay the imposition of our respective tariffs on imported goods.
Last updated: February 4, 2025
Premier Susan Holt welcomed news that the 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods have been paused for 30 days, but said New Brunswick must remain vigilant. The provincial government will also:
Holt and representatives from New Brunswick’s business community will travel to Washington next week to advocate for New Brunswick workers and businesses, and to seek a permanent removal of the tariffs.
A tariff is a tax or duty imposed by a government on an imported or exported good. When used appropriately, it can be both an important source of revenue for a government and a tool to protect domestic industries from foreign competitors. Tariffs increase the price of imported goods into a country, making them less competitive compared to alternatives.
Canada is the largest buyer of U.S. goods and services and buys more U.S. goods than China, Japan, France, and the United Kingdom combined. The relationship between New Brunswick and the U.S. is important for both parties, and we need to keep it strong and open.
The imposed 25% tariff on exports to the U.S. will severely harm our local businesses and communities. New Brunswick businesses are understandably worried about the effects these tariffs may bring. The longer these tariffs stay in place, the more likely our economy will suffer lasting damage.
It’s crucial now more than ever to buy local products and support New Brunswick and Canadian companies. Your choices make a difference! While you are shopping, consider choosing New Brunswick or Canadian alternatives. You can identify these by looking at the product labels for terms like:
By looking for these labels and symbols, consumers can choose to buy products made in New Brunsiwck or Canada. Eating and buying local keeps profits here at home. Local producers support their communities by creating jobs, buying from local businesses, giving to community-based non-profits and keeping rural areas vibrant.
Learn about the vibrant food and beverage scene here in New Brunswick. Look for the Savour NB logo on products and store shelves, and you'll know you're buying and supporting local.
See how you can purchase New Brunswick made products, services and experiences by looking for the Excellence NB logo on NB made products!
We are taking a united approach to tackle the U.S. tariffs through Team New Brunswick. Our goal is to protect local businesses and our economy. We are collaborating with federal partners to maintain our vital trading relationship with the U.S.
On February 3, 2025, Canada and the United States agreed to delay the imposition of our respective tariffs on imported goods. We are continuing to work to ensure New Brunswick stays stable. Our priority is to support local businesses and limit any potential job losses. The provincial government will:
We are also focused on finding New Brunswick / Canadian-made products to reduce our reliance on U.S. imports.
February 10, 2025: As part of a joint mission aimed at strengthening Canada-U.S. relations, Premier Susan Holt will lead a delegation of New Brunswick business leaders on a three-day mission to Washington, D.C. Read the news release
Our team at Opportunities New Brunswick (ONB) provides programs and services that help businesses during this challenging time.
ONB's Business Navigators can help businesses understand and adapt to tariff changes, connect businesses with the right resources to overcome trade challenges, and support business growth in new and existing markets.
If you are a New Brunswick business facing the uncertainty of tariffs, you can contact ONB’s Business Navigators to have your questions answered by:
Join us on February 5, 2025 for the ONB Export Webinar Series to explore the current trade landscape and discover resources for New Brunswick exporters. This session, Free Trade Agreements and Tariffs 101, will cover the impact of tariffs on trade, macroeconomic insights, and the Government of New Brunswick / Gouvernement du Nouveau-Brunswick Tariff Response Action Plan, with expert insights and a Q&A.
Learn how ONB accelerates the growth of our industries by attracting global business, strengthening exports, and empowering local companies and entrepreneurs.
The Government of Canada has a comprehensive plan to fight back against the unjustified U.S. tariffs imposed on Canadian goods while supporting Canada's interests, industries, and workers.
Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs, unveiled the full list of items covered by tariffs on $30 billion in goods imported from the U.S., the first phase of Canada’s response to unjustified U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
Read the Government of Canada news release issued February 1, 2025, in response to the imposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.