Board of Trade Statement in Response to Ratification of Deal to End Port Strike
For Immediate Release
Friday, August 4, 2023
VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade’s President and CEO, Bridgitte Anderson, has issued a statement in response to the ratification of a deal to end the port strike:
“Businesses in Greater Vancouver and across the country are breathing a sigh of relief that ports and supply chains are returning to normal.
While we greatly welcome this news, as we have said since the beginning of the work stoppage, the impact of this strike on our economy has been significant. Our Port Shutdown Calculator estimated $10.7 billion of trade was disrupted during the strike period. The effects of the strike rippled across sectors nationwide, including manufacturing, retail, critical minerals and various sectors and services and sectors Canadians rely on.
Our priority must be to strengthen the resilience and stability of our domestic supply chains and international trade relationships. As an open and trading economy, Canada needs to rebuild its reputation as a reliable trading partner. It took unexpected and extraordinary tools to facilitate an end to the disruption. Moving forward, the federal government needs to expand its options for addressing labour disputes that impact the national economy and supply chains.”
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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:
Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.
Media contact:
Rahul Ajwani
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com