B.C. groups call for lower burdens, barriers in light of U.S. tariffs
Escalating trade tensions between Canada and the United States have led British Columbia business groups to call for lower burdens and barriers. The BC Chamber of Commerce is convening its network of 85 groups to ask the provincial government for support programs. President Jen Riley stated that 14% of B.C. exports could be affected by 50% U.S. tariffs that started on Saturday.
Small and medium-sized businesses, present in every community, are expected to be the hardest hit. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to double tariffs on Canadian automobiles and auto parts to 50% starting January 1. B.C. Premier David Eby called the tariffs an "economic attack" and accused the U.S. of seeking to reduce trade relations with Canada.
Bridgitte Anderson, president of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, said B.C. businesses in manufacturing of electrical machinery, plastics, and wood products will be especially hard hit. Interprovincial trade barriers must also be addressed to mitigate the impact of U.S. tariffs, according to Anderson.
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