B.C. premier David Eby to focus on trade with China on first visit

By the Editorial Team · Monday, June 29, 2026

British Columbia Premier David Eby is conducting his first trade mission to China to boost economic relations and promote sectors including forestry, energy, and LNG development. The trip aims to diversify B.C.’s trade partnerships beyond the U.S., address tariffs impacting key exports, and advance a major LNG expansion project with PetroChina.

British Columbia Premier David Eby is embarking on his first official trade mission to China, aiming to strengthen economic ties and promote key sectors such as forestry, energy, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) development. The trip, scheduled to include visits to Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, marks a strategic effort to diversify the province’s international trade relationships beyond its predominant engagement with the United States.

Speaking to reporters ahead of his departure, Eby highlighted China’s position as British Columbia’s second-largest trading partner and expressed his intention to pursue growth opportunities across a range of industries, including tourism, agriculture, and forestry. He emphasized the provincial government’s goal of doubling international trade within the next decade.

Eby cited challenges posed by U.S. tariffs on forestry products, which have significantly impacted the sector and, by extension, employment in the province. He also underscored the importance of addressing Chinese tariffs affecting B.C.’s seafood exports, hoping that discussions during the visit might lead to their removal.

The premier acknowledged the evolving international environment by noting that he has been briefed by both the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service to navigate potential risks and ensure a secure delegation throughout the trip.

One of the central objectives of the mission is a planned meeting with PetroChina to discuss the anticipated second phase of the LNG infrastructure expansion at Kitimat, British Columbia. The project, pivotal to the province’s energy sector, is expected to reach a final investment decision later this year. Eby described the meeting as a key opportunity to solidify commitments and advance the development.

Eby also referenced efforts led by federal officials, notably Prime Minister Mark Carney, to re-engage with China, describing these as opening “the door again” for Canadian provinces like B.C. to actively compete on the international stage.

The trade mission reflects a broader push by British Columbia to expand its economic footprint in the Asia-Pacific region, seeking to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics while capitalizing on emerging markets and strengthening long-term partnerships.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.