Urgent Action Needed for Canada's Seafood Industry: Redirecting Exports

With 20 years of experience in the commercial marine industry, I’ve traveled extensively throughout North America and Europe, supplying essential goods such as marine gas oil, commercial rain gear, and marine engines. This experience has fostered valuable international connections within the industry and with government entities. In light of the current challenges from incoming 25% tariffs with Donald Trump’s America on Canadian seafood workers, immediate action is necessary.

Current Export Values of Canadian Seafood to the U.S. (2021)

• Lobster (from Atlantic Canada): $2.6 billion
• Crab (from Quebec and Atlantic Canada): $1.4 billion
• Fish (from Atlantic Canada): $1.2 billion
• Fish (from Quebec): $200 million
• Seafood (from British Columbia): $1.6 billion
• Fish (from the Canadian Great Lakes): $250 million
• Fish (from Lake Winnipeg): $20 million

I strongly urge all commercial fishermen in British Columbia, Manitoba, the Great Lakes, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada to take the following actions as soon as possible.

We need to redirect 100% of lake & seafood exports away from the United States permanently. It is critical that Canadian fishers and seafood exporters immediately focus on shifting our markets to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. These regions represent opportunities for significant growth and can mitigate the impact of 25%. tariffs.

 With my experience and extensive international network, I’ve seen firsthand how valuable it is to build and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders in target markets. Fishermen must work together with government entities and industry partners to establish solid, long-term trade agreements with Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. These regions offer more stable, tariff-free opportunities.

I'm not proposing a short-term fix. Redirecting exports requires long-term commitment and strategic planning to re-establish Canadian seafood in international markets. Continued efforts in marketing, establishing supply chains, and adapting to regional regulatory standards will be essential for sustaining growth.

The threat of 25% tariffs imposed by the U.S. presents a significant challenge to Canada’s seafood industry. However, by acting swiftly to redirect exports to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, Canadian commercial fishermen can safeguard the future of their businesses and contribute to the long-term success of the country’s seafood industry. This shift is not only necessary but also presents an exciting opportunity to diversify and thrive in new markets globally. Now is the time for bold action.