GVBOT Welcomes Pause of Planned PST Expansion

VANCOUVER, B.C. — In response to the Premier’s announcement that the government is pausing a planned expansion of the PST, Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, has issued the following statement:

"The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade made stopping the PST expansion our top recommendation to government as part of the response to the trade war and tariffs. Today's decision to pause the planned Provincial Sales Tax expansion is a very welcome response to those concerns.

"Through our Stop the Squeeze campaign, Board of Trade members and local businesses sent more than 4,000 letters to MLAs, demonstrating the depth of concern across the province and the importance of keeping costs manageable for households, entrepreneurs, and employers.

"We appreciate that the government listened to British Columbians, businesses, and community organizations that raised practical concerns about the impact these changes would have had on affordability, investment, and economic growth.

"This outcome demonstrates the value of constructive engagement between government and the business community. While a pause is very welcome, we will continue to work to stop this expansion permanently, and propose tax changes that increase investment and spur growth.

We are grateful to the thousands of British Columbians who participated in our Stop the Squeeze campaign and made their voices heard, and we commend the Province for responding. By removing this proposed tax increase, the government has taken an important step toward supporting confidence, competitiveness, and growth across British Columbia at a time when our province is facing significant economic challenges and a trade war.

"The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade will continue advocating for practical solutions that improve affordability, support economic growth, and help businesses succeed in an increasingly challenging economic environment. We encourage the Province to maintain its focus on policies that strengthen competitiveness, support investment, and help British Columbians navigate ongoing economic pressures."

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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:

David van Hemmen
Vice President
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5454 | media@boardoftrade.com