If you follow local business news, you know the US trade war is hitting New Brunswick hard. Tariffs and border disputes create massive instability for local manufacturers. But one Dieppe company found a way to beat the shrinking export market by looking closer to home.

Losing Ground in the United States

Malley Industries builds ambulances. By early 2024, the company did nearly half its business in the United States. New York City stood as their second biggest customer right after New Brunswick. Then the trade disputes escalated.

Since last April, the company saw its US business shrink by 80 percent. According to CBC News, customers delayed orders because they feared sudden tariff changes. No one wants to sign a contract on Monday if new import rules ruin the deal by Friday.

Pivoting to the Canadian Market

The company refused to wait for the US market to stabilize. Instead, they invested one million dollars into research and development. Engineer Deji Ayoola and his team worked long hours to design a brand new ambulance tailored specifically for Canadian needs.

They launched the new design this week to potential clients from Quebec and Alberta. Vice president Myles Malley noted the massive potential in these new markets. Representatives from Quebec alone represented a fleet of 400 ambulances. For context, New Brunswick only operates about 145 ambulances in total.

A Bright Spot for Local Exports

This successful pivot comes at a crucial time for the province. Recent US import bans on Canadian goods affect roughly 115 million dollars of New Brunswick exports. Economic Development Minister Luke Randall praised Malley Industries for leading the business community through a very difficult situation.

The manufacturer plans to expand its reach across Canada. While they remain open to future US business, they are no longer waiting around for American buyers to make up their minds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Malley Industries lose US business?

The ongoing trade war and tariff instability caused US clients to delay or reduce their orders.

How much did the company invest in their new design?

Malley Industries invested one million dollars in research and development for their new ambulance.

Which Canadian provinces are they targeting?

They are initially targeting Quebec and Alberta with plans to expand across Canada.