Productivity is a key driver of economic prosperity, global competitiveness and overall societal well-being. Yet, New Brunswick faces declining productivity levels, and our export-focused economy’s $7-billion trade deficit leaves us highly vulnerable to the effects of geopolitical instability, such as tariffs. How can New Brunswick adapt successfully to a realigned global economy? How do we remain competitive in new and emerging markets?
This installment of Shaping the Debate brings together leaders from across the public and private sectors to explore how our province can harness enhanced productivity to create a more prosperous and resilient future for all.
New Brunswick has consistently ranked among the lowest in Canada for productivity, placing ninth out of 10 provinces. According to Statistics Canada, labour productivity declined by 2.7 per cent in 2023, continuing a downward trend since 2020.
Low productivity negatively impacts all areas of our society, including essential quality of life and standard of living services, such as health care, education and infrastructure. Reversing the trend is essential if New Brunswick is to establish itself as a competitive, healthy, educated and future-ready place to live and work.
At the same time, global economic shifts—including increasing protectionism, evolving trade agreements, and geopolitical instability—pose risks for export-dependent provinces such as New Brunswick.
Canada’s financial relationship with the United States is more uncertain than ever, with rising tariffs and shifting policies affecting key industries such as forestry, manufacturing and energy. These conditions threaten to strain the fragility of New Brunswick’s fiscal capacity and its ability to sustain public programs and services and the quality of life we currently enjoy.
Moderated by Tracy Bell, Executive Director, Wallace McCain Institute, the panel will probe the understanding of productivity and why it matters. Productivity is not about working harder; it’s about working smarter.
The discussion will focus on real-life examples and tangible, practical solutions to enhancing New Brunswick’s productivity levels as we respond to the pressing challenges of the day. This timely, relevant and urgent conversation will help chart the next steps for our province.
Tracy Bell is a corporate executive turned entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder and CEO of Millennia TEA. Under her leadership, the company pioneered a new category of fresh-leaf tea, earning international recognition for its innovation. A former journalist and corporate communicator, Tracy now leads the Wallace McCain Institute, fostering leadership and entrepreneurship in Atlantic Canada.
David Campbell is the President of Jupia Consultants Inc., an economic development consulting and research firm based in New Brunswick. As a former Chief Economist for the Government of New Brunswick, he has shaped policies on economic growth, investment attraction and workforce development.
Dr. Herb Emery is a leading researcher on regional economic development, labour markets and productivity in Atlantic Canada. His work focuses on policy solutions to boost economic competitiveness and workforce participation.
Craig Estabrooks leads one of New Brunswick’s key economic hubs and revenue generators for New Brunswick in supply chain efficiency, driving growth in trade and infrastructure. His leadership has positioned Port Saint John as a strategic player in regional economic expansion. Craig has worked in progressively responsible leadership positions over the past decade at Port Saint John.
Adrienne Oldford has deep leadership experience and a passion for economic and social development in New Brunswick. She has over 25 years of senior management experience in the public and private sectors. She has served as president and CEO of the New Brunswick Business Council and COO of Atlantic Lottery Corp., among other roles. Adrienne regularly volunteers to facilitate strategic planning engagements with local community organizations.
