Business groups welcome PM Carney, urging swift action on trade, tax reform, SME support, and investment to drive growth in Surrey and across Canada.
As Prime Minister Mark Carney takes the reins of Canada’s federal government following a decisive election victory, two key business organizations in British Columbia are calling for urgent action on a range of economic and social priorities.
The Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT) and the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce have issued a joint statement congratulating Prime Minister Carney and urging his administration to focus on strengthening Canada’s competitiveness, modernizing tax policy, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
“Canada’s economic future hinges on bold, forward-thinking leadership,” said Joslyn Young, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade and Acting Executive Director of the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber. “We’re eager to work with the new federal government to create an environment where businesses can thrive and communities can prosper.”
Economic and Social Priorities
The organizations outlined five immediate priorities for the federal government:
- Eliminate internal trade barriers to enhance productivity and create a seamless national marketplace.
- Diversify global trade partnerships to reduce economic vulnerability and open new markets.
- Overhaul the tax system to simplify compliance and promote innovation and investment.
- Invest in socio-economic development, including housing, healthcare, workforce training, infrastructure, and immigration reform.
- Bolster SME support through targeted funding, reduced red tape, and access to capital.
Young emphasized that economic strategies must be paired with inclusive policies to meet the needs of rapidly growing communities. “Surrey and White Rock are among the fastest-growing urban centres in Canada,” she said. “Smart, targeted investments are essential to maintain momentum and ensure that both businesses and residents are supported.”
Regional Political Landscape
The political map in Surrey and White Rock remains largely consistent, with the six local ridings electing the following Members of Parliament:
- Langley Township–Fraser Heights: Tako van Popta (Conservative, incumbent)
- Fleetwood–Port Kells: Gurbux Saini (Liberal)
- South Surrey–White Rock: Ernie Klassen (Liberal)
- Surrey Centre: Randeep Sarai (Liberal, incumbent)
- Surrey Newton: Sukh Dhaliwal (Liberal, incumbent)
- Cloverdale–Langley City: Tamara Jansen (Conservative, incumbent)
Both the SBOT and the Chamber reaffirmed their readiness to collaborate with all levels of government to help shape policies that promote sustainable economic development, job creation, and inclusive prosperity.
“Now is the time for action,” said Young. “Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Canada.”
