Minister Thompson Engages with Canadian Exhibitors at Seafood Expo North America in Boston Advancing Fisheries Funding and Combating Illegal Fishing Activities

Canada is reinforcing its commitment to being a dependable trade partner, working closely with international allies to navigate a complex global trade landscape.

A key part of this effort is strengthening ties with the United States to ensure fair, predictable, and rules-based trade that supports investment, good jobs, and thriving rural and coastal communities.

At the forefront of this initiative, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries, led Canada’s delegation to the Seafood Expo North America, held in Boston, Massachusetts, from March 15 to 17, 2026.

The event provided a prime opportunity for Canada to showcase its high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood while fostering strong economic ties with its largest export partner.

Promoting Sustainable Seafood and Best Practices

The Seafood Expo offered Canadian businesses a global stage to demonstrate leadership in fisheries management and marine conservation.

Minister Thompson highlighted Canada’s dedication to sustainable practices, showcasing how careful stewardship supports both the environment and the economy.

Provincial representatives from Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and British Columbia joined Minister Thompson, underscoring the collaborative approach between federal and provincial governments in promoting the nation’s seafood industry.

The Expo also served as a forum for Canadian exhibitors and stakeholders to voice concerns about trade relations, allowing the federal government to explore ways to support and protect industry interests.

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Strengthening Investments in Fisheries

During a key session with the Eastern Fisheries and Aquaculture Ministers, Minister Thompson emphasized Canada’s readiness to begin discussions on a five-year renewal of the country’s fisheries funds.

This initiative represents a critical investment in the long-term competitiveness of Canada’s seafood sector, ensuring that rural and coastal communities reliant on the industry continue to thrive.

Negotiations will focus on federal-provincial funding levels, supporting innovation, and promoting market diversification.

Minister Thompson also reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to combatting illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing through collaborative, industry-driven approaches.

Canada’s Global Seafood Outreach

Looking beyond North America, Canada’s seafood delegation will continue its international outreach at the Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona, Spain, from April 21 to 23, 2026.

This next step underscores Canada’s ongoing efforts to expand its global market presence and reinforce its reputation as a leading provider of sustainable seafood.

Impact and Consequences

Minister Thompson’s active participation in Boston strengthens Canada’s trade relationships and reinforces the country’s position as a reliable exporter.

By emphasizing sustainability and collaboration, these efforts help safeguard marine ecosystems, enhance the seafood sector’s competitiveness, and secure livelihoods in rural and coastal regions.

What’s Next?

The Canadian government will continue negotiations with provincial partners on fisheries funding, support industry growth, and expand international trade promotion.

The upcoming Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona will further showcase Canadian seafood innovations and open doors to new markets worldwide.

Summary

Minister Thompson’s leadership at the Seafood Expo North America highlights Canada’s dedication to sustainable seafood, strong U.S. trade relations, and support for rural and coastal communities.

Provincial collaboration, industry engagement, and global promotion form the backbone of Canada’s strategy to grow the seafood sector responsibly and competitively.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Minister Thompson led Canada’s delegation to the Seafood Expo North America in Boston, highlighting sustainable fisheries and strong trade ties with the U.S.
• Provincial delegates from Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and British Columbia joined efforts to promote Canada’s seafood industry.
• Canada is ready to negotiate a five-year renewal of fisheries funds to support sector competitiveness and rural and coastal communities.
• Collaborative strategies are being pursued to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
• The Canadian delegation will continue international promotion at the Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona, Spain, in April 2026.