BIABC calling for action on US tariff file as province announces new deals across Canada

They say timing is everything. The same day the BIAs made their plea, the B.C. government announced framework for trade deals with Yukon, Manitoba and Ontario.

“And the one in Ontario is significant because we have been trying for a long time to reduce barriers with Ontario and Quebec,” Kahlon told CFJC News. “And this one not only about liquor but services and goods and looking to reduce those barriers. We are finally starting to see real progress on this file.”

Kahlon, the tariff response committee chair, is also now the minister for jobs and economic growth, a natural tie-in connection, putting him at the front of the province’s effort to support local business.

“It was just very easy just to focus on the us. We have become complacent because of that relationship. I think we always thought that stable partner down south would be there,” said Kahlon. “And this is a rude awakening for us as governments, as business leaders, as labour leaders, and that means we have to do things differently and that is what the work we are doing now is about.”

While the impetus for change has been driven from south of the 49th parallel, the ideas are long overdue, according to Heighton.

“When chaos reigns supreme, opportunity emerges. The opportunity is, let’s get this deal done, let’s start talking to other provinces — not necessarily only Europe or only the Pacific rim, but let’s start talking to each other and let’s really support small business which is the backbone of prosperity in British Columbia,” said Heighton.

Heighton, who is also with the North Kamloops BIA, noted local businesses are reporting cost increases of 15-to-30 per cent, with big decisions on the horizon as pre-tariff inventory begins to dry up.

by Michael Reeve

BIABC calling for action on US tariff file as province announces new deals across Canada

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