Mandate

The Ministry of Trade & Industry is committed to strengthening the Republic of Newfoundland’s position as a leader in digital sovereignty and technological innovation within a diversified, ocean-focused economy. Its primary mandate is the implementation and oversight of the National Innovation and Digital Infrastructure Plan (2021–2026), which delineates a cohesive strategy for digital modernization, connectivity, and secure data ecosystems across Newfoundland and Labrador. The ministry is tasked with advancing digital government–related industrial initiatives, supporting cybersecurity capacity in partnership with relevant ministries, and fostering the development of AI and other emerging technologies in the private sector. Key to its mission is achieving universal high-speed broadband access and supporting economic growth through tech-driven industries that reflect the Republic’s maritime, Arctic, and small-state identity.

Strategic Priorities

• Support the achievement of 100% national broadband access by 2024, ensuring all citizens and businesses are connected, including remote coastal and Labrador communities.
• Help develop a secure and sovereign AI and data ecosystem, promoting technology that respects privacy, national ethics, and the rights of all citizens, including Indigenous communities.
• Support and fund tech-driven startups and innovation projects to bolster economic development in alignment with the Republic’s fisheries, offshore energy, Arctic logistics, and digital economy pillars.
• Work with other ministries to enhance public access to government services via seamless and secure digital platforms.
• Promote and facilitate digital infrastructure investments, including the Labrador Fibre Spine and Arctic communication projects that support North Atlantic and Arctic connectivity.
• Promote digital literacy and cybersecurity skills through dedicated educational and workforce programs in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and other partners.
• Encourage the integration of AI, automation, and modern technologies to optimize public services and industry while maintaining strong safeguards for democratic institutions.
• Foster international cooperation on ethical AI standards and digital innovation with NATO allies and other partners.

Programs & Services

• Cybersecurity awareness and workforce development initiatives for industry in partnership with relevant ministries.
• Support and funding for tech-driven startups and innovation projects.
• Promotion of public access to government services via digital platforms developed across government.
• AI research and development collaborations with academic and private sectors.
• Support for digital ID and privacy frameworks that enable secure access to services and commerce.

Key Departments

Contact

Ministry of Trade & Industry
St. John’s, Republic of Newfoundland

Email: info@republicofnewfoundland.com
Tel: +1-709-555-0000