Tariff uncertainty has created anxiety for businesses in Saint John, a region heavily reliant on exports to the United States.
Shannon Merrifield, CEO of the Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce, says the back-and-forth decisions from the U.S. administration have left businesses unable to plan effectively.
“The uncertainty is very concerning, and even the threat of tariffs can be as damaging as the tariffs themselves,” Merrifield said.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has named Saint John the most vulnerable region in Canada to tariffs, due to its high concentration of export-driven industries like seafood, forestry, and manufacturing.
Merrifield highlighted that around $15.5 billion in goods were traded between New Brunswick and the U.S. last year.
Rising costs for materials like steel, aluminum, and energy are also affecting prices for consumers.
Merrifield warned of a domino effect, saying higher costs could impact industries such as construction and small businesses, potentially causing price increases, production slowdowns, and job losses.
In response, the New Brunswick government has announced a $162 million relief plan, including $40 million for capital growth programs, infrastructure, and workforce training through initiatives like WorkingNB.
Merrifield expressed confidence in the plan but said it is still early to know how effective it will be. She also stressed the importance of community efforts.
“We’ve been hearing from the start is to support local. Let’s have our buying power positively affect the community,” she said.
The Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce is also taking steps to assist businesses by providing resources to its members, including bi-weekly newsletters and an online information hub.
Merrifield said the Chamber is working closely with all levels of government and collaborating with cross-border chambers, to maintain communication and advocacy efforts.
