A Measured Approach Amid Trade Uncertainty and Economic Pressures

VICTORIA, B.C. – March 4, 2025: Today, British Columbia’s Finance Minister, the Honourable Brenda Bailey, announced the government’s 2025 Provincial Budget. Positioned as a plan to prepare British Columbia (B.C.) for global trade challenges, the budget appears to maintain the status quo with targeted investments while navigating uncertainty caused by recently announced tariffs. The government has emphasized its commitment to supporting B.C. businesses and workers in response to trade disruptions, with further details on agriculture-specific financial commitments expected in the coming months.

Recognizing agriculture as a cornerstone of B.C.’s economy, the budget includes several measures that may benefit the sector, though direct funding commitments remains unclear in some areas.

Key Measures Impacting Agriculture:

• Strengthening Supply Chains & Infrastructure: $95 million included for critical highway and bridge maintenance to ensure the safe and efficient movement of people and commercial goods.
• Expanding Global Trade & Market Access: New trade missions will be launched to build international partnerships and reduce dependence on U.S. markets.
• Facilitating Direct Sales of B.C. Wine: Removing barriers that have prevented B.C. wineries from selling directly in Alberta, opening new market opportunities.
• Addressing Trade Uncertainty: Measures will be introduced to protect local businesses from unfair trade practices and potential tariffs on food exports.
• Investing in Innovation and Emerging Technologies: Budget includes $30 million for the Integrated Marketplace Initiative to support good-paying jobs and new and emerging BC-based technologies.

Other Insights:

• Ministry of Agriculture & Food operating budget increasing from $95.0 million to $99.1
• Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) budget remains flat at $5.5
• Ministry of Agriculture and Food Production Insurance Special Account increases from $41.7 million to $55.2 million.
• Ministry of Agriculture and Food estimate for 2024/25 was $130.1 million, but updated forecast is $228.8 million (further details pending).

“With the sudden implementation of new tariffs, there is significant uncertainty about the potential impact on B.C. farmers and ranchers,” says BCAC President, Jennifer Woike. “Without strong government support, these trade disruptions could add another layer of pressure on an already strained industry. We will continue advocating for measures that directly support B.C. farmers, including access to tariff relief programs and reinvestment of counter-tariff funds into affected sectors.”

The 2025 Provincial Budget not only addresses current challenges but now faces the added test of responding to new trade barriers. BCAC will continue working closely with provincial and federal partners to ensure that B.C. farmers and ranchers receive the necessary support to navigate these economic shifts.

The government’s full budget announcement can be found here: BC Budget 2025

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For more information:
Daniella Reid
Director of Public Affairs T: (604) 854-4454 ext 194
E: communications@bcac.ca

About BC Agriculture Council: BCAC’s mission is to grow a strong, sustainable and competitive agriculture sector through building industry consensus and advancing public policy. This is achieved by delivering a unified voice for the sector to government through member farm associations that in turn represent approximately 96% of provincial farm gate sales.