B.C. Workshops Promote Global Trade for Local Businesses

Exploring Free Trade Agreements

The Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation (JEDI) continued its province wide initiative of sharing trade expertise throughout British Columbia with workshops in Chilliwack, Surrey and the Comox Valley.

This spring, as part of a province wide initiative, the Trade Policy team at JEDI organized a series of workshops to promote trade opportunities for businesses throughout British Columbia (B.C.). The events aimed to support entrepreneurs and business leaders by providing essential insights into the benefits and processes of international trade. The main objective was to equip local businesses with the tools and knowledge necessary to expand globally, utilizing free trade agreements and other available resources.

Earlier workshops took place in Prince George, Nanaimo and Richmond.

Export Awareness in Chilliwack

On June 4, 2024 the Trade Policy team, accompanied by an Export Navigator advisor and the Honourable Jagrup Brar, Minister of State for Trade, met with local businesses in Chilliwack to assist them in scaling through international trade. Chilliwack’s vibrant business ecosystem, which includes sectors like agriculture, food processing, manufacturing, and creative industries/technology, drew participation from entrepreneurs and industry leaders eager to explore export opportunities facilitated by the Province.

Export Awareness in Surrey

Likewise, on June 14, a workshop was held in Surrey, B.C., by the Ministry, focusing on the region’s unique trade advantages. Attended by Minister Jagrup Brar and the Trade Policy and Export Services teams, the event showcased key initiatives such as the Province’s Trade Diversification Strategy and the Export Navigator program. Surrey’s expanding business ecosystem, featuring sectors like clean energy, healthcare, advanced manufacturing and agriculture, provided an ideal setting for the event.

Export Awareness in Comox Valley

The workshop series wrapped up in Comox Valley on June 21, 2024, where local businesses interested in exporting discussed trade opportunities and shared stories about challenges they face alongside JEDI’s Trade Policy team and Export Navigator advisors. Comox Valley’s key sectors, including agriculture, construction, tourism and technology were highlighted during the discussions.

Stimulating Economic Development in B.C.

These workshops are crucial components to the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation’s broader outreach efforts to enhance B.C.’s trade capabilities. By uniting B.C. businesses with key stakeholders and providing them with valuable resources and insights, the Province is actively fostering an environment conducive to business growth and international trade expansion. These workshops serve as both educational forums and networking opportunities, allowing businesses to connect with government officials and industry experts to bring forward trade issues and explore potential solutions to export challenges.

Supported by government officials and detailed presentations on available resources, the Ministry’s initiative is invaluable in equipping local businesses with the necessary tools to succeed in global markets and use Free Trade Agreements to lower costs, gain a competitive edge or provide avenues to address trade concerns. Through programs like Export Navigator and Trade Accelerator Program, the Province ensures that businesses across various sectors can effectively navigate and leverage international trade opportunities.

Contact Trade and Invest BC to learn about how B.C. is building strong trade relationships.