MAINE PUBLIC • April 30, 2025
Canada-based Acadian Seaplants has closed its Maine operations in Jonesboro, citing the exchange rate, transportation costs, and tariffs as the drivers of the decision. Company president and CEO Jean Pierre DeVeaux said tariffs will cost his business millions of dollars on an annual basis. He said if 25% tariffs continue it could drive Canada into a recession. Six staff members and 30 independent contractors are affected by the Jonesboro closure. The Maine Rockweed Council estimates 17 million pounds are removed each year along Maine's coast with a value of about $1 million.