In 2016, Canada and the European Union signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, or CETA. CETA is a political achievement from successive federal governments, which overcame resistance to trade in some European regions.
The value of this trade deal for Atlantic Canada is tremendous. For decades, our industries have operated with hampered access to European markets, especially in the fishery. Contending with import tariffs – designed to disadvantage Canadian goods – made competition more difficult.
With an export-heavy economy, widening free trade arrangements is advantageous to our region. Greater exchange with Europe, without the hampering effects of tariffs, will mean more production, jobs, and wealth for Atlantic Canada.