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FUTUREPROOFING CANADA
Tariffs, Trade, and Transformation: The Future of Atlantic Canada’s Economy

September 3, 2025

Canadians are living through uncertain times. Our country faces interconnected challenges including a new geopolitical world order, economic headwinds, climate change, technological disruptions, shifting demographics and deepening inequality.

Futureproofing Canada brings you conversations with the people who are thinking boldly about how to solve these challenges. Each biweekly episode features a frank, in-depth discussion between IRPP president and CEO Jennifer Ditchburn and the leaders who envision a Canada that’s confident and ready to seize opportunities.


In this episode, Jennifer is joined by David Chaundy, President and CEO of the Atlantic Economic Council, for a conversation about the economic transformation of Atlantic Canada and what lies ahead for the region.

Chaundy reflects on more than two decades of industrial change, from the decline of traditional sectors to the rise of bioscience, aerospace, and offshore energy. He highlights the challenges posed by tariffs and labour shortages, as well as the opportunities presented by immigration, interprovincial trade, and strategic investments in energy, transportation, and defence.

Chaundy outlines a vision for Atlantic Canada that links economic resilience to national priorities, showing how the region can play a critical role in Canada’s long-term prosperity.