Tariff fears and high stakes for Atlantic Canada at the Boston Seafood Expo

The Seafood Expo North America in Boston is typically a bustling event filled with excitement, showcasing the latest trends and innovations in the industry. However, this year, the atmosphere is overshadowed by the looming threat of tariffs that could have a significant impact on Atlantic Canadians.

Bruce Wilson, a lobster fisherman from New Brunswick, expressed his concerns about the potential tariffs and how they could affect his business and local communities. He emphasized the uncertainty surrounding who would ultimately bear the brunt of these tariffs – whether it be the fishermen, consumers, or other stakeholders in the industry.

With Canada exporting 67 percent of its seafood products to the United States, the impending tariffs from both the U.S. and China are causing anxiety among attendees at the expo. U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the resumption of tariffs, while China is set to impose a 25 percent tariff on seafood imports.

Neil Targett, a member of the Barry Group of Companies, noted that conversations on the expo floor have been dominated by talks of tariffs. The uncertainty surrounding the situation has left many feeling nervous about the future of the industry.

Canadian officials at the expo emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relationships with the United States in the face of these challenges. They highlighted the long-standing collaboration between the two countries and stressed the need for unity during this critical time.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston acknowledged the potential impact of tariffs on pricing but remained optimistic about the resilience of Atlantic Canada’s seafood products in the global market. He reassured attendees that efforts would be made to navigate through these challenges and support the industry.

As the expo unfolds amidst this climate of uncertainty, stakeholders are hopeful that a united front and collaborative efforts will help weather the storm and mitigate the effects of the tariffs on the seafood industry. The importance of maintaining strong relationships and working together to address these challenges was a recurring theme throughout the event.