Strengthening Our Community in Times of Uncertainty – A Message from the CEO

Dear Chamber Members and Community Partners,

It is an absolute honour to step into the role of CEO at the Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce. Our business community is the heart and soul of this region, driving innovation, creating jobs, and shaping our shared future. I am deeply committed to working alongside you to build on our strengths, face challenges head-on, and cultivate a resilient and thriving local economy. Whether we have worked together before or are just getting to know each other, know that my passion for this community runs deep, and with the dedicated and professional team at the Chamber, we will work tirelessly to celebrate business, champion your needs and strengthen our community.

Right now, we are facing a critical challenge—one that affects every business, every worker, and every household in our region. The uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariff threats has the potential to disrupt industries that form the backbone of our economy, from energy and seafood to tourism, forestry, and agriculture. Our economic ties with the United States are fundamental, and we cannot afford to stand by as policies threaten to undermine years of collaboration and mutual prosperity.

To put this into perspective, in 2023 alone, over $11.8 billion USD worth of goods flowed between New Brunswick and Maine by truck, rail, and pipeline. A proposed 25% tariff would not just be a policy shift—it would be a major blow to businesses, workers, and consumers on both sides of the border. This is why the Chamber is taking decisive action. We are working with all levels of government, our Chamber networks both provincially and nationally, local leaders, business owners and stakeholders to navigate and advocate for policies that protect our economy and safeguard the livelihoods of our region and nation.

As a local business owner for more than 20 years, I understand what it means to navigate uncertainty. I have felt the pressure of adapting to change, the weight of making tough decisions, and finding the drive to keep moving forward despite the unknown. And if there’s one thing I have learned, it’s this: our community is resilient. Time and again, we have come together, lifted each other up, and found new ways to thrive. Now, more than ever, we need to double down on that spirit—support local businesses, invest in Canadian goods and services, and stand united in the face of these challenges. Our governments and businesses need to explore diversification and growth of new markets, breaking down trade barriers between provinces and help Canadian business through policy driven financial support.

The Chamber is not just here to observe—we are here to act. We are pushing for real solutions, ensuring businesses have access to the latest information, and making sure that you have the tools and resources needed to navigate this evolving landscape.

As we move forward, know that my team and I are here for you. We want to hear your stories, understand your concerns, and work together to strengthen our business community. Currently, we are actioning a communication plan that will allow continuous engagement both online and in person. Stay tuned as there will be more to come in the following weeks on our programming and outreach during this time.

As always, feel free to contact us at info@thechambersj.com,  (506) 634-8111 or drop in to our office at 78 Prince William Street. We would love to see you, hear your questions, concerns and solutions as we navigate these roads together. I will be stepping into this role on February 24, and will be onsite that date forward.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our region. I look forward to meeting many of you soon and shaping a bold, prosperous future—side by side.

With determination and gratitude,

Shannon Merrifield
CEO, Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce