B.C. Premier David Eby and Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon are set to embark on a trade mission to India within a week to boost local businesses and industries during a period of uncertainty and strained international relations. Eby mentioned during a press briefing on Tuesday that the trip from Jan. 12 to 17 aims to strengthen ties at a crucial juncture, as India is on track to become the world’s third-largest economy soon. The delegation will engage with government and industry leaders in key cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru (Bangalore).
Highlighting that B.C. is India’s primary trading partner in Canada, Kahlon disclosed that in 2024, bilateral trade between the two reached $2.1 billion, accounting for a quarter of Canada’s exports to India. Eby emphasized the significance of the trade mission following the imposition of tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The delegation will focus on creating opportunities for the forestry sector, which has been adversely affected by tariffs. Additionally, they will advocate for the clean energy, mining, and technology sectors. Kahlon underscored that B.C. boasts 12,000 tech firms and hosts the fastest-growing life sciences industry in the nation.
Notably, a recent trade mission to Asia led to substantial projects, including LNG Phase 2, which is expected to undergo a final investment decision this year. Eby highlighted that if finalized, this project, supported by a coalition of countries like Korea, Japan, and Malaysia, along with their state investment entities, would mark the largest private sector investment in Canadian history.
Addressing concerns about the alleged involvement of India in the murder of prominent Canadian Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Eby expressed profound worry. He referenced the accusation made by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding the Indian government’s role in the incident. Eby expressed confidence in the ongoing criminal proceedings against the four individuals charged with the murder.
Eby stressed the federal government’s responsibility to collaborate with India on mutual concerns, while noting that B.C., as a subnational government, is focused on supporting its residents by generating employment in sectors impacted by tariffs. He cited the importance of maintaining relations with countries like the United States and China despite challenges.
In a related development, Eby addressed U.S. President Donald Trump’s actions in Venezuela and disagreed with Albertan Premier Danielle Smith’s call for expediting a pipeline project through B.C.’s North in response to the situation. Eby advocated for increased investment in the underutilized Trans Mountain pipeline and proposed directing public funds towards a refinery to bolster the domestic oil and gas sector.
