Strengthening B.C.’s Economy Amid U.S. Tariff Threats
With B.C. already facing domestic economic challenges, new U.S. tariff threats add another layer of uncertainty for businesses and workers. In response, the Business Council of British Columbia (BCBC) has released an economic blueprint outlining ten policy ideas to strengthen the province’s economy and ensure B.C.’s competitiveness in a rapidly changing global environment.
The report, Strengthening B.C.’s Economy Amid U.S. Tariff Threats, outlines practical, high-impact policy recommendations in three key areas:
Restoring Fiscal Stability and Tax Competitiveness: Strategies to put B.C. on a sustainable financial track while attracting investment and talent. Key measures include exempting all capital investment from the provincial sales tax and reducing the province’s top marginal income tax rate.
Growing the Economy While Reducing Global Emissions: Policies that leverage B.C.’s natural resource sector can attract investment, diversify trade, and drive economic growth while lowering global emissions. Key recommendations include reforms to carbon pricing, emissions caps, and permitting processes to position B.C. as a leader in responsible energy development.
Encouraging an “Open for Business” Mentality: Actions to improve investor confidence, streamline regulations, and remove interprovincial trade barriers to support business growth.
The full report can be accessed here.