Vancouver, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Read joint letter: https://bit.ly/4djo6js
As Canada’s 45th Parliament begins, the Western Business Coalition—comprised of the Business Council of British Columbia, Business Council of Alberta, Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, and Business Council of Manitoba—is calling on all Members of Parliament (MPs) to focus urgently on restoring Canada’s economic competitiveness and creating the conditions for a turnaround in living standards.
In a letter sent today to every MP in Canada, the Coalition highlights mounting concerns over Canada’s economic trajectory, including near-zero growth in GDP per capita over the past decade, unsustainable growth in the public sector, and a troubling weakness in private sector activity.
“On a per-capita basis, the country has been in a recession for more than two years. To reverse this trend, we must adopt policies that attract investment and support rising living standards for Canadians,” said Laura Jones, President and CEO of the Business Council of B.C.
To help restore Canada’s economic foundation, the Coalition is urging Parliament to act swiftly on three critical fronts:
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- Abandon the proposed oil and gas emissions cap – Canada’s resource sector is a key driver of exports, jobs, and economic reconciliation. The cap could undermine economic growth and global emissions reductions goals.
- Improve tax competitiveness – Canada needs a tax system that supports long-term investment and talent retention. We recommend improvements to depreciation allowances for capital investments and a more competitive personal income tax system to help businesses attract and retain highly skilled workers.
- Streamline regulatory processes – Canada must make regulatory excellence a competitive advantage, ensuring high standards without unnecessary delays or burdens.
The Coalition’s message is clear: Canada must act immediately to create a vibrant investment …