Jobs and Economic Growth
Summary
- Statistics Canada reports 25,200 new jobs in B.C. in May 2026, including 7,200 new youth jobs
- B.C.’s construction and manufacturing sectors see three straight months of job creation
- B.C. continues to lead all large provinces in GDP growth, with the highest average wages in Canada
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Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth, has issued the following statement about the release of Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey for May 2026:
“As new and escalating tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump, combined with the ongoing war in Iran, continue to raise costs and create uncertainty for people and economies around the world, British Columbia is building a stronger, more resilient economy.
“Today’s Labour Force Survey shows that B.C. added 25,200 new jobs in May 2026, including 7,200 new jobs for youth, and the third straight monthly increase in construction and manufacturing – an increase of nearly 19,000 new jobs in those sectors over that time period.
“This reflects the record levels of rental housing construction seen in B.C., with 2025 rental housing starts triple what they were in 2015.
“Despite global challenges, investors continue to show confidence in B.C., with $88-billion worth of proposed major projects moving forward. Over the next three years these projects are expected to create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs across the province.
“This strength is also reflected in the private sector, where B.C. saw the second-largest increase in Canada, adding 14,800 new jobs in May.”
“By hosting major global events like FIFA World Cup 2026 and Web Summit Vancouver, B.C. is creating new opportunities for businesses, boosting tourism, attracting investment and supporting jobs throughout the province.
“This is reflected in the 5,700 new accommodation and food-services jobs added last month, with a total growth of 17,400 jobs over the past year.
“B.C. also added 10,200 jobs in transportation and warehousing in May, reflecting strong trade activity and the critical role of our supply chains in supporting a growing economy.”
“B.C. continues to lead the country with an average hourly wage of $38.65, the highest among provinces. Our province is also a national leader in bringing rent costs down, with the largest declines of any province.
“Through the Look West strategy, our government is creating new opportunities for people and businesses, while making sure British Columbians have the skills they need to succeed in a changing economy.
“That’s why we are doubling our investment in skills training to $241 million to ensure more young people have the skills they need to seize these new opportunities. We are helping train workers for in-demand jobs, funding up to 5,000 new trades seats, cutting wait lists and expanding access to training across the province.
“We are strengthening B.C.’s place in the global economy by expanding trade relationships and advancing major projects, including growing our LNG sector. Canada’s recent LNG deal with Germany – historic and first of its kind – reflects the growing global confidence in what we’re building here in B.C.”
“With the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicking off this month, B.C. will be on the global stage as a world-class destination for tourism and investment.
“The matches are expected to bring approximately 350,000 visitors to BC Place and generate significant economic benefits, including approximately $1 billion in GDP during the tournament and in the five years following, supporting jobs and opportunities for people across the province.
“Travel through Vancouver International Airport reflects that momentum, with 2.7 million passengers expected between June 8 and July 12 – a five to 10 per cent increase over last year. We will also host the international business community at B.C. Business House, creating new opportunities for local industries to connect with investors and showcase our strengths.”
“With our continued investment in people and major projects, and a clear focus on diversifying trade, B.C. is well-positioned to navigate global uncertainty and build an economy that works better for everyone.”
Learn More:
- To learn more about B.C.’s response to tariffs, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/tariffs - To learn more about Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger BC and Canada, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/LookWest
