Nova Scotia Launches Three-Year Plan to Grow $2.2 Billion Seafood Industry

The Nova Scotia government has unveiled a comprehensive three-year strategy designed to foster growth within the province's substantial $2.2 billion seafood industry. This initiative aims to bolster the sector against challenges such as escalating costs, persistent labor shortages, and complex global trade dynamics.

Central to the strategy is a $1.5 million investment earmarked for this year to establish an innovation hub. This hub will focus on applied research, seeking to drive advancements and efficiencies within the industry. The plan also emphasizes expanding the aquaculture sector and providing crucial support for product diversification, encouraging businesses to develop new and varied offerings.

Furthermore, the government has committed up to $4 million over the next three years to support market diversification efforts. This funding is intended to help businesses explore and penetrate new markets, reducing reliance on existing ones and increasing overall resilience.

According to government figures, Nova Scotia's seafood industry was a significant employer in 2025, providing jobs for approximately 19,000 people. It remains the province's top exporter, generating $2.2 billion in revenue last year. The strategy was developed collaboratively, incorporating input from various industry representatives to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.

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The goal is to help the sector cope with rising costs, labour shortages and global trade challenges.