B.C. Premier Eby visits China to pitch LNG project as province's 'really big fish'

British Columbia Premier David Eby is embarking on his first trade mission to China, focusing on promoting the province's forestry products and its energy sector, with a particular emphasis on liquefied natural gas (LNG) development. Eby approaches the trip with a mix of excitement and caution, aiming to strengthen ties with China, the province's second-largest trading partner.

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really hurting

The premier's goal is to double international trade over the next decade. He highlighted that U.S. tariffs are significantly impacting B.C.'s forestry sector, while many provincial jobs depend on the relationship with China. Eby expressed hope for the removal of Chinese tariffs that currently affect B.C. products, including seafood.

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our team is fully aware of how to minimize risk and to maximize opportunities while visiting.

To ensure a secure and productive visit, Eby's team received briefings from the RCMP and the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. The government has withheld Eby's full itinerary to prevent competitors from gaining an advantage as the mission seeks to secure deals for B.C. companies.

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unfair advantage

A key objective of the trip is to discuss the second phase of the massive LNG facility expansion in Kitimat, B.C., with PetroChina. A final investment decision for this project is expected later this year, making the discussions with Chinese energy partners crucial.

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really big fish