(VICTORIA) March 4, 2025 — The provincial government unveiled the 2025 BC Budget today in Victoria, on the same day as sweeping U.S. tariffs came into effect, along with Canadian retaliatory tariffs. Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce CEO Leslie Courchesne attended the Budget Speech at the BC Legislature.
"The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce acknowledges that British Columbia is facing significant economic headwinds and uncertainty fueled by the new trade war with the U.S.," said Courchesne. "While this is an extremely challenging year for the province, we are very concerned this budget does not do enough to help businesses of all sizes weather this storm."
The BC Chamber of Commerce shares concerns with the Tri-Cities Chamber about the budget and fiscal plan.
"Today’s budget is sobering for both businesses and British Columbians. It does not deliver the economic incentives, tax changes, programs or policy shifts that are required to kick-start our economy and which we have been advocating for since before the last election," said Fiona Famulak, President and CEO, BC Chamber of Commerce.
“The ongoing investments in health care, education, and safety are important priorities that will deliver key services that all British Columbians will benefit from. However, healthy businesses drive a healthy economy, grow jobs, increase investment and generate the revenues government needs to provide public services," added Famulak. "...The continued reliance on significant deficits, approximately $10 billion in each of the next three years, is concerning. Further, the budget does not take into account the expected impacts of US tariffs, which could result in $1.4 to $3.7 billion of loss in revenue annually to the province."
View the full BC Chamber of Commerce statement here.
View the 2025 BC Budget and associated information here.
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Since 1971, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has been the largest business association serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore, and Belcarra, now representing 1,300+ organizations from every sector. The Chamber works to foster economic development, provide connections and benefits, and influence public policy at all levels of government to ensure strong business and strong communities. The Tri-Cities Chamber is an active member of the BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
For more information, contact:
Leslie Courchesne, Chief Executive Officer
Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
ceo@tricitieschamber.com
604.468.6870