LISTEN: Economic engagement, electricity strategy, and workforce development initiatives drive regional business discussions

The Atlantic Economic Panel launches comprehensive regional engagement to identify growth opportunities and policy priorities. Federal and provincial governments advance a national electricity strategy affecting grid infrastructure and energy planning across Atlantic Canada.

Maritime lobster fishermen celebrate significant price gains following China trade deal eliminating 25% tariffs, while American producers express concerns about market share losses. European investment accelerates Atlantic Canada's hydrogen export ambitions as TD Economics forecasts slower housing markets amid high interest rates and labour shortages.

Small businesses in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick report improved confidence for 2026 despite persistent demand challenges. French renewable energy company Q Energy France partners with NSCC to train workers for offshore wind sector, signaling readiness for large-scale projects. Regional developments include Sydney Harbour project negotiations ending in deadlock and Prince Edward Island potato producers confronting escalating irrigation challenges.

Highlights:

Atlantic Economic Panel begins regional engagement – Seven-member private sector panel conducts sessions across provinces through February to deliver growth recommendations to federal government by September.

National electricity strategy consultation launches – Ottawa seeks provincial input on grid infrastructure and renewable generation affecting regional energy planning and competitiveness.

Maritime lobster prices surge 20% after China deal – Tariff elimination provides significant relief to fishing communities while American fishermen express market share concerns.

Atlantic hydrogen exports gain European momentum – Major investment initiative strengthens confidence in region as future hydrogen supplier to Germany and EU markets.

New Brunswick lumber faces 45% US tariffs – Combined duties threaten sawmill viability and forest value chain supporting thousands of jobs with higher-than-average wages.

Canterra Minerals reports high-grade gold at Wilding – Drilling results boost exploration optimism and strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador's emerging gold jurisdiction profile.

"This report is based on publicly available reporting from regional, national, and industry news sources."

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LISTEN: China tariff relief brings cautious optimism to seafood exporters while financial pressures mount across the region

Atlantic Canada navigates significant economic crosscurrents as temporary tariff suspension brings immediate relief to the seafood industry while mounting household pressures threaten consumer spending. Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island's lobster sectors celebrate China's decision to suspend 25% tariffs on Canadian crustacean exports through year-end, though industry leaders express concerns about the temporary timeline.

Financial sentiment across the region reveals deepening concerns as 68% of Atlantic Canadian residents expect cost-of-living challenges to worsen in 2026, with housing affordability dominating worries in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Major commercial shifts include Casino Nova Scotia's relocation from Halifax's waterfront to Dartmouth Crossing, while New Brunswick industrial giants like JD Irving Limited pursue grid independence amid rising power costs.

Innovation and infrastructure investments provide bright spots through Sydney's new Cape Breton Business Innovation Centre receiving over $1.3 million in combined funding, Saint John positioning itself as an AI data centre opportunity leveraging extensive dark fibre infrastructure, and Bathurst gaining new commercial air service through PropAir.

Highlights:

China tariff suspension brings $400M relief to maritime lobster industry – Canada and China reached agreement to temporarily suspend 25% tariff on Canadian lobster and crab exports through year-end.

Casino Nova Scotia relocation reshapes regional commercial landscape – Provincial government's decision to move facility from Halifax's waterfront to Dartmouth Crossing creates commercial winners and losers.

New Brunswick industrial companies pursue grid independence – Major companies like JD Irving Limited advocate for policy changes allowing renewable electricity generation.

Pipestone XL nickel-cobalt discovery gains strategic attention – First Atlantic Nickel Corporation emphasized strategic importance following White House proclamation on critical mineral supply chains.

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LISTEN: Trade missions, workforce policies, and infrastructure investments highlight regional economic activity across the Atlantic provinces

Atlantic Canada demonstrates diverse economic activity this week as provinces navigate trade diplomacy, capital investments, and workforce policy decisions. Nova Scotia pursues international seafood markets through ministerial trade missions to China while confronting technology sector setbacks and proposed electricity rate increases. The province's liquor corporation joins regional counterparts in liquidating American alcohol inventory for charity, recording $7 million in sales.

New Brunswick advances substantial infrastructure priorities through its capital budget while maintaining flexible public sector workforce policies and addressing forestry sector challenges. The province welcomes battery recycling program expansion and sees federal court decisions favouring local seafood processors.

Prince Edward Island celebrates tourism sector success with live music generating significant economic impact, receives federal funding for meat processing innovation, and achieves environmental progress through consecutive emission reductions. Newfoundland and Labrador reaches aerospace industry milestones with spaceport environmental approval while capitalizing on exceptional cruise tourism performance.

Highlights:

Air Canada-PAL Airlines partnership extends to 2032 – Fleet expansion from six to eleven aircraft strengthens regional connectivity across Eastern Canada.

China trade mission targets seafood market expansion – Minister leads delegation to $615 million export market despite new tariff challenges.

New Brunswick capital budget prioritizes infrastructure – $247 million healthcare allocation alongside $242 million for schools signals provincial investment focus.

Nordspace receives environmental approval – Atlantic Spaceport Complex clears major hurdle for Newfoundland's aerospace sector development.

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