Summary

• Chambers of commerce and boards of trade strengthen local economies, support businesses throughout B.C.
• Government is collaborating with business organizations to boost competitiveness, reduce barriers
• Ease of Doing Business and Look West economic strategy help businesses grow, innovate, access new opportunities

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Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, has released the following statement in recognition of B.C. Chamber of Commerce Week, Feb. 9-13, 2026:

“This week, we honour B.C. Chamber of Commerce Week and the important role that chambers of commerce and boards of trade play in strengthening local economies and supporting businesses in every region of our province.

“As businesses navigate challenges brought on by unjustified U.S. tariffs, chambers and boards of trade continue to offer essential support — helping entrepreneurs access resources, overcome barriers and build the connections that drive innovation and economic growth.

“From rural communities to major urban centres, these organizations advocate for local priorities, and help create opportunities that benefit businesses, workers and families. Their leadership and dedication are vital to building a resilient and competitive economy for people across the province.

“We know there is more work to do. Our government continues to collaborate with business organizations, including chambers, to identify needs and support economic growth through programs, partnerships and strategic investments.

“One example is our Ease of Doing Business initiative, which gives businesses a direct way to share their ideas and solutions to improve the business climate in B.C.

“Our government also brought together all 10 provinces and three territories, and the federal government, in unprecedented collaboration to sign the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement on Goods. This historic agreement reduces barriers and makes it easier for B.C. businesses to sell products across Canada, representing the largest set of red-tape reductions in our country’s history.

“We will continue engaging with business organizations throughout the province. Through our Look West strategy, we will help businesses seize new opportunities and achieve the goals we’ve set together.”

Learn More:

• To learn more about the Ease of Doing Business program, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/easeofdoingbusiness
• To learn more about actions government is taking to support businesses, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/business/ease-of-doing-business/ease-of-doing-business-actions
• To learn more about resources for small business, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/business/small-business
• To learn more about Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger B.C. and Canada, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/LookWest
• To learn more about free trade within Canada, visit: https://www.gov.bc.ca/DomesticTrade