Image via sjport.com
Ontario companies are rapidly expanding their international reach, with exports through New Brunswick’s Port Saint John increasing by 153 per cent in 2025 compared to the previous year. The surge highlights efforts by the provinces to strengthen trade across Canada and access new global markets in response to U.S. tariffs.
Premier Doug Ford and New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt met with port officials and industry stakeholders to celebrate the milestone and discuss ongoing infrastructure improvements. The two leaders emphasized the importance of ports, rail, highways, and pipelines in supporting reliable supply chains and boosting Canadian exports.
Of the 8,083 shipping containers from Ontario through Port Saint John last year, 4,153 went to Europe, 1,306 to Asia, and nearly 2,400 to the Caribbean, South America, and Central America. Major products included vehicles, metals, forestry products, and agricultural goods, underlining the diversity of Ontario’s economy.
The provincial governments are also reducing interprovincial trade barriers and improving regulatory alignment across Canada, aiming to make domestic supply chains more efficient. Ontario has signed economic cooperation agreements with 10 provinces and territories and continues to lead the country in fostering internal trade.
Ontario’s investment of $30 billion in transportation infrastructure ensures goods can reach international markets while supporting local jobs and business growth. Officials say the Port of Saint John is now “Ontario’s port to the world,” providing a modern, reliable gateway that helps Canadian businesses compete globally.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
