For Canada to Look West, B.C. Must Commit to Increased Competitiveness

VANCOUVER, B.C. — In response to the release of the B.C. government’s Industrial Strategy, Look West, Bridgitte Anderson, the President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, released the following statement: 

The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade is encouraged by the Province’s renewed focus on building a strong, sustainable economy. The Province has laid down some clear markers, such as welcoming $200B of private sector investment over the next decade, aligning with the Prime Minister’s goal to double non-US exports, increasing food exports by 25%, growing made-in-BC innovations, and securing 35% of federal defence ship contracts. We are encouraged by the framing, direction, goals and sectoral commitments in the strategy, including the focus on talent and innovation.

However, the true measure of success will not be the strategy itself, it will be in the results delivered, the value for money achieved, and the effectiveness of implementation.  

To achieve these objectives, and build a more prosperous and secure economy, the strategy must be much more than leveraging federal investment and spending. For too long we put up barriers and roadblocks to investment. As we build out the industrial strategy, it must also be focused on encouraging private investment, value for taxpayers, and be grounded in the reality our of government’s fiscal position.

For Canada to Look West the B.C. Government must also look inward and put economic growth at the heart of decision making.

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

Federico Cerani
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com