BC Chamber delegates approve 38 new policy resolutions to drive business advocacy in B.C. (L-R) Justin Levine, TCC Board Director, Jennifer McKinnon, CEO Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
Nanaimo, BC (June 5, 2025) — The BC Chamber of Commerce has officially wrapped up its 73rd Annual General Meeting and Conference, held June 3–5, 2025, in Nanaimo. The event brought together 171 delegates from across British Columbia to shape the future of business through policy development, expert insights, and collaborative dialogue.
This year’s theme, “Stronger Together: Building the Future of Business through Collaboration,” underscored a core message that echoed throughout the three-day gathering — that collective efforts are key to navigating today’s complex economic landscape. “Collaboration is the cornerstone of innovation and progress, Jennifer McKinnon, CEO of the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce shares, “when we come together, we unlock new possibilities and build a future where our collective strengths create a thriving business landscape."
A major highlight of the conference was the annual policy resolution sessions, where delegates debated and voted on issues that matter most to businesses across the province. This year, 40 resolutions were submitted by 16 local Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade. After debate and discussion, 38 policy resolutions were approved and will be included in the BC Chamber’s 2025–2026 Policies & Positions Manual.
“The Chamber of Commerce engages businesses by ensuring their voices are heard in policy decisions at both the provincial and federal level" states Justin Levine, Board Director for the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce who participated in the policy debates at the conference this year. “Policy work fosters an environment where collaboration drives growth and innovation”.
These approved resolutions span a wide array of critical provincial and federal issues, reflecting the priorities and concerns of British Columbia’s business community. Topics addressed include:
- Regulatory reform to streamline processes and reduce red tape;
- Lowering interprovincial trade barriers to enhance competitiveness;
- Expanding market access and managing international trade;
- Support for small businesses, which remain the economic backbone of many communities; and
- Diversifying B.C.’s economic base in the face of shifting global dynamics.
The Chamber also passed policy recommendations tackling broader societal issues that directly impact the business climate, such as housing affordability, public safety, access to health care, labour shortages, and immigration pathways.
Once finalized, the Policies & Positions Manual will be submitted to senior levels of government and made publicly available later this month. The Manual serves as a critical advocacy tool, guiding the BC Chamber’s efforts to advance a strong, sustainable, and competitive business environment in British Columbia.
The 73rd AGM and Conference concluded on a high note, reinforcing the Chamber network’s united voice and shared vision for a thriving B.C. economy. As businesses continue to face uncertainty and rapid change, the BC Chamber’s message is clear: through collaboration, resilience, and bold advocacy, British Columbia’s business community will emerge stronger than ever.
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Since 1971, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has been the largest business association serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore, and Belcarra, now representing 1,300+ organizations from every sector. The Chamber works to foster economic development, provide connections and benefits, and influence public policy at all levels of government to ensure strong business and strong communities. The Tri-Cities Chamber is an active member of the BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
For more information, contact:
Jennifer McKinnon, Chief Executive Officer
Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
ceo@tricitieschamber.com
604.468.6870