As we settle into the early months of 2026, the business landscape in Saint John is showing remarkable resilience and growth, particularly in the logistics and transportation sectors. While the winter winds blow off the Bay of Fundy, the economic activity at our waterfront is heating up, driven by strategic partnerships and long-term infrastructure investments. In a time where supply chain stability is top of mind for businesses across Canada, Saint John is emerging as a critical pivot point for national trade.

A Surge in Interprovincial Trade

In a major development for the region’s economy, Port Saint John has officially cemented its role as a primary gateway for Ontario’s global trade. Recent data reveals a staggering 153 per cent increase in goods from Ontario flowing through the port in 2024-25 bound for international markets. This surge highlights the port’s growing capacity and efficiency, positioning New Brunswick as the definitive eastern gateway for Canadian exports.

This growth isn’t a sudden spike but part of a sustained upward trend. Over the past five years, the volume of Ontario goods moving through New Brunswick’s largest port has skyrocketed by nearly 600 per cent. By 2025, exports from Ontario accounted for nearly one-third (31%) of the Port’s total export volume.

Strategic Partnerships Driving Growth

This success is the result of coordinated efforts between provincial leaders to remove trade barriers and enhance economic cooperation. Premier Susan Holt recently joined Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Port Saint John CEO Craig Bell Estabrooks to celebrate this milestone.

“Port Saint John is Ontario’s port to the world,” stated Premier Holt. “This partnership strengthens Canada’s economy by connecting Ontario exporters to global markets through a modern, efficient, and reliable gateway right here in New Brunswick.”

Premier Ford echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the port in protecting Ontario’s economy from global uncertainty. “We are supporting the construction and expansion of critical nation-building infrastructure such as pipelines, rail lines, highways and ports, including vital trading hubs like Port Saint John,” Ford noted.

Infrastructure Investments Paying Off

The capacity to handle this increased volume is largely due to the recently completed $247-million modernization of the west-side container terminal. Funded in partnership with provincial and federal governments, this upgrade, alongside the operations of terminal operator DP World, has equipped the port to accommodate larger vessels and higher cargo volumes.

Craig Bell Estabrooks, president and CEO of Port Saint John, highlighted the broader impact: “With newly modernized infrastructure and unparalleled connectivity, we are proud to fuel job growth in southern New Brunswick and offer all of Ontario new, reliable supply chain pathways.”

For more details on this development, you can read the full release from Opportunities NB.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Port Saint John important for Ontario’s trade?

Port Saint John serves as an efficient “Eastern Gateway” for Ontario, allowing goods to reach international markets quickly. It offers strong inland connectivity via three major railways, making it a reliable alternative to other congested ports.

What recent upgrades has the port undergone?

The port recently completed a $247-million modernization project on its west-side container terminal. This investment has significantly increased its capacity to handle container traffic and larger ships.

How much has trade increased recently?

In the 2024-25 period alone, there was a 153% increase in Ontario goods moving through the port. Over the last five years, that volume has grown by nearly 600%.