Economy

Until the mid-20th century, New Brunswick's economy depended heavily on lumbering, farming, and fishing. Today, the province has a relatively diversified, industrial economy. Notable growth has occurred in manufacturing—now the leading sector of the economy—and mining. The province also has a growing tourist trade.

Most of New Brunswick's manufacturing is based on the processing of local natural resources and agricultural products. Pulp and paper milling is the largest industry, followed by food processing. Other industries include mineral smelting and refining, metal fabricating, and the production of electrical goods and transportation equipment, mostly ships and railroad cars. Saint John and Moncton are the principal industrial centers.

Lumbering is a vital part of New Brunswick's economy, providing raw materials essential to the province's manufacturing industries. New Brunswick usually ranks fifth among the Canadian provinces in volume of wood cut and contributes about 5 per cent of the nation's total production.

Although farming is hindered by the rocky terrain and generally poor soils, agriculture is an important activity. Dairying, centered in the lowlands along the Bay of Fundy, and the growing of fruits and vegetables in the St. John Valley account for much of the agricultural production. Beef cattle and hogs are raised in many areas. Potatoes are the leading cash and export crop. Most other farm products are consumed locally.

The area around Bathurst is the province's chief mining district. Lead and zinc are the principal minerals produced, accounting for most of the production by value. Sizable amounts of copper, silver, and coal are also produced.

The rich fisheries off Canada's east coast were largely responsible for New Brunswick's early settlement, and commercial fishing and fish-processing remain important to the province's economy. Lobsters and herring are the most valuable catch. Sport fishing, especially for trout and Atlantic salmon, attracts many visitors to the province.

New Brunswick has an extensive railway system, mainly lines operated by Canada's two transcontinental systems. The coastal areas and the south are well served by roads and highways, including part of the Trans-Canada Highway. The interior of the province has few paved roads. Air Canada and several smaller carriers provide domestic and international air service. Saint John is the province's chief seaport, handling both coastal and foreign trade. Ferries link New Brunswick with Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island.