Event Series: B.C.’s Response to Tariffs in Kelowna and Burnaby

B.C. businesses have recently had two opportunities to engage with experts on how to navigate the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs and capitalize on the opportunities available through Canada’s free trade agreements and export programs. These events, held in Kelowna on March 19, 2025, and in Burnaby on April 11, 2025, are part of a series designed to provide local businesses with the resources they need to expand their markets and grow beyond reliance on the U.S.

The Kelowna and Burnaby sessions were the first in a series of events aimed at promoting trade awareness and trade diversification, with additional sessions scheduled throughout B.C. in the coming months. The series highlights the importance of finding new markets and customers considering ongoing trade uncertainties.

Kelowna Event: Building Resilience and Diversification

The Kelowna event was attended by local business owners who gained valuable insights into B.C.’s response to U.S. tariffs and the various resources available. The Honourable Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation spoke at the event, in addition to panelists from the B.C. Government, Export Navigator Program, and the Community Futures Network of Canada, all discussing the measures B.C. is taking to protect and advocate for its businesses, as well as how local businesses can take advantage of diversification opportunities within Canada and internationally. Representatives from Service Canada were also on hand to answer any questions related to their programs.

A key focus of the event was educating businesses about the importance of leveraging economic diversification to ensure long-term resilience. With B.C.’s heavy reliance on the U.S. market, exploring new international markets, including Mexico, Vietnam and Taiwan, was highlighted as a strategy for reducing risk and expanding opportunities. The Trade and Investment BC team provided a detailed overview of available resources, including the Export Navigator program, which helps businesses enter new markets and grow their international presence.

“Two years ago, the B.C. government launched the Trade Diversification Strategy, which addresses the need for a diversified trading base for British Columbia. This strategy is championed by our network of over 50 Trade and Investment Representatives in 14 key markets including in the UK, EU and Asia Pacific, [who help connect B.C. exporters with opportunities, businesses and suppliers abroad].

I encourage you all to show the world what Kelowna and the Thompson – Okanagan region has to offer. Your strengths lie in many sectors including agriculture, aerospace, digital tech, health, manufacturing, viticulture, tourism, retail trade, forestry and construction — all of which reinforce your importance to the provincial economy.” Honourable Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation

The event also featured a roundtable session where participants introduced themselves and discussed their experiences and challenges. This facilitated networking and allowed businesses to share insights about their export goals and strategies. It was clear from the discussions that businesses in Kelowna are eager to explore new markets and better understand how to utilize the free trade agreements that can benefit their growth.

Burnaby Event: Expanding Trade Opportunities

Three weeks later, the Burnaby Board of Trade hosted the Honourable Paul Choi, MLA Parliamentary Secretary for Asia-Pacific Trade and a diverse group of B.C. business owners in Burnaby.

The Burnaby session included presenters from the Burnaby Board of Trade, Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation and an export navigator advisor, who elaborated on the various resources and tools available to B.C. businesses, including those that help companies diversify their export markets. Much like the Kelowna event, the Burnaby session emphasized the importance of free trade agreements, such as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Canada and the European Union (CETA), and interprovincial trade opportunities that could benefit businesses looking to reduce their reliance on the U.S. market.

“Canada has free trade agreements that cover more than 50 international markets. I encourage you all to show the world what Burnaby has to offer. Your strengths in many sectors reinforce your importance to the provincial economy. I’m thinking of areas such as IT and communications, life sciences, film and digital entertainment, education, environmental technology, tourism, light and heavy industry, and agriculture.” Paul Choi, Parliamentary Secretary for Asia-Pacific Trade

Attendee Feedback: The Need for Broader Participation

Both the Kelowna and Burnaby events received positive feedback from attendees, many of whom expressed relief to hear there are options and programs available to mitigate risks and help them on their export journey. Several attendees noted that the information provided during the sessions was critical for companies seeking to expand beyond the U.S. and diversify their customer base.

“As a video game studio working at the intersection of creativity and technology, we’re always looking for ways to build new partnerships and reach new markets.  The B.C. Response to U.S. Tariffs event in Kelowna was a timely reminder that while challenges like tariffs can feel like potential roadblocks, they can also be catalysts for innovation, collaboration and growth.

We came away from the session energized by the resilience and grit of B.C.’s business community, and with a renewed appreciation for how industry and government can work together to open doors and think more globally.

Tools like the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) database and export funding opportunities are practical resources that make it easier for companies like ours to take the next step. We’re now actively exploring opportunities to expand our reach into new markets and doing so with the confidence that there’s a network of support behind us.” Jennifer Killback, Chief Business Officer, Hypper Hippo

Attendees at the Burnaby event echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the timeliness and relevance of the information shared.

Upcoming Events and Registration

Following the successful Kelowna and Burnaby events, additional sessions are scheduled throughout B.C. in the coming weeks. The next event will take place in Nanaimo, followed by sessions in Surrey and Prince George to name a few. These upcoming events offer businesses the opportunity to provide feedback and a chance to access the resources and information they need to expand into new international markets and leverage free trade agreements to their advantage.