News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Treasury Board President Roger Melanson, who is also the minister responsible for Trade Policy, will travel to Augusta, Maine on April 3 as part of an advocacy initiative to promote New Brunswick’s trade relationship with the United States.

He will meet with a number of officials of the Maine state government to explore the mutual benefits of trade and co-operation.

“Enhancing trade and economic relationships with the United States remains a high priority for New Brunswick,” said Melanson. “Your government values our ongoing relationship with the State of Maine and New England. I am happy to have this opportunity to promote the advantages of trade and the mutual benefit that it provides. I look forward to meeting our partners in Maine and building upon our existing positive relationship.”

Trade between the United States and Canada is responsible for millions of jobs in both countries. The United States is New Brunswick’s largest trading partner, and New England is New Brunswick’s largest regional market. Reciprocally, Canada is also the largest customer for the United States and New Brunswick is Maine’s largest international export market.

New Brunswick exporters shipped $767 million worth of goods to Maine last year, primarily wood pulp, electricity, lumber, lobster and salmon. Maine shipped $1 billion worth of products to New Brunswick in 2016, primarily lobsters, natural gas, and salmon.

Later in April, Melanson will be leading another advocacy mission to Boston to promote the importance of trade with the New England region.

New Brunswick is an active participant in regional cross-border forums such as the Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers and the Southeastern United States – Canadian Provinces Alliance. These groups provide opportunities for exchanges with key North American political leaders.