New Brunswick earns ‘A’ grade on internal trade report card: CFIB

The New Brunswick Legislative Building is pictured. (Anna Mandin/CTV News Atlantic)

New Brunswick is making top marks when it comes to reducing barriers to trade and labour mobility, according to the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs.

The province earned an A grade in the latest internal trade report card from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business – it’s highest score to date and a significant improvement from a C in 2025.

“New Brunswick is proving that provinces can lead the way in breaking down barriers and creating a stronger, more connected Canadian economy,” said Premier Susan Holt in a news release from the province.

“Through our leadership on internal trade, we are removing unnecessary barriers, improving labour mobility and creating more opportunities for New Brunswick companies to grow. This recognition shows that New Brunswick is leading the way in modernizing internal trade in Canada.”

Nine other provinces, including Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, also received As.

The report card, which was released Wednesday, graded three areas of interprovincial/territorial co-operation:

• Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) exceptions
• the existence of inter-jurisdictional barriers to internal trade
• the implementation status of items from reconciliation agreements

“Our government is committed to making it easier for New Brunswick businesses to compete, grow and reach new markets across the country,” said Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Jean-Claude D’Amours in the release.

“By reducing regulatory barriers, improving co-operation with our provincial partners and creating more consistent rules for trade and labour mobility, we are delivering practical solutions that support economic growth and benefit New Brunswickers.”

For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.