Helping Atlantic Canadian businesses tackle trade challenges
News release
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative will help businesses respond, adapt, and compete amid shifting market conditions
August 29, 2025 – Moncton, NB ∙ Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
The Government of Canada is focused on protecting Canadian workers, reinforcing the competitiveness of Canadian businesses and building one strong Canadian economy.
Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced that businesses in Atlantic Canada can now apply to the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI). The program is designed to help small to medium sized enterprises across the region respond to trade shocks by supporting projects that improve productivity, diversify markets, strengthen supply chains, and boost domestic trade.
The RTRI is part of a broad set of tariff support measures, including the Large Enterprise Tariff Loan Facility, the Business Development Bank of Canada’s Pivot to Grow initiative, and support for the steel sector through the Strategic Innovation Fund. Together, these efforts demonstrate a commitment to reinforcing Canada’s industrial strength and defending good jobs across the country.
To support applicants and stakeholders, ACOA officials will host information sessions in the coming weeks to provide guidance on the program and application process.
Quotes
“Atlantic businesses know how to adapt. With the Regional Tariff Response Initiative now open for applications, we’re supporting the sectors feeling the most pressure so they can manage costs, keep people working, and stay competitive as trade rules evolve. This is about protecting good jobs here at home and building a more resilient regional economy.”
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Quick facts
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The Regional Tariff Response Initiative will enable businesses to open doors to new markets, boost productivity, and strengthen domestic supply chains. Visit ACOA’s website to learn more.
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The Government of Canada has a comprehensive plan to fight back against U.S. tariffs, while supporting Canada's interests, industries, and workers.
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Delivered through Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs), the Regional Tariff Response Initiative is a national initiative that will enable businesses to offset the impacts of tariffs and adapt to longer-term trade volatility by opening doors to new markets, boosting productivity, reducing costs, and strengthening domestic supply chains.
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On July 16, 2025, the Government of Canada announced a suite of new measures to support the domestic steel industry, including targeted support through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative.
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In Atlantic Canada, ACOA is on the ground, working closely with federal, provincial, and territorial partners to respond to the unique needs of the region and build one strong Canadian economy.
Associated links
Contacts
Natasha Kochhar
Director of Projects and Caucus Relations
Office of the Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Natasha.Kochhar@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Media Relations
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
mediaroom-salledesmedias@acoa-apeca.gc.ca