Canada invests $30.5M in B.C. businesses to counter trade disruptions

The Canadian government has announced more than $30.5 million in funding through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative to support 24 businesses and organizations in British Columbia. The program aims to help companies navigate trade disruptions, improve productivity, and build more resilient supply chains.

Key recipients include Nanaimo Forest Products, which operates the Harmac Pacific pulp mill, receiving $5.5 million to install new equipment and increase production capacity. COTA Aviation, a majority Indigenous-owned company specializing in aircraft and defense parts, was awarded $1 million to purchase advanced equipment for gear production. Other recipients include Niik Steel with $1 million, Canadian Bavarian Millwork & Lumber with $1 million, the BC Shellfish Growers’ Association with $363,800, and the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance with $300,000.

Minister Gregor Robertson stated that the investments are intended to help businesses pivot to new growth pathways and open doors to new markets amidst ongoing trade challenges.