FREDERICTON -- Irving Oil says any New Brunswick carbon plan needs to allow the province's businesses to remain competitive.

Premier Brian Gallant's government announced in Tuesday's throne speech that his Liberal government would bring in carbon pricing that helps combat climate change.

The premier says the pricing model will minimize the impact on consumers while calling on industry to reduce emissions or pay its fair share.

In a statement sent to The Canadian Press, Irving Oil said 80 per cent of its production goes to the U.S., where its competitors face no carbon tax.

Jeff Matthews, an executive from the firm, said in the release that the firm is "committed to working with all levels of government on a plan that protects the environment while also maintaining competitiveness for New Brunswick businesses."

He's calling on the province to create a "Made in New Brunswick" carbon pricing model.