The BC Conservatives have introduced legislation aimed at bolstering interprovincial trade.
Leader John Rustad's "Free Trade and Mobility within Canada Act" was described by the party as a way to "unlock economic potential, reduce red tape, and ensure that British Columbians benefit from freer and fairer commerce within Canada."
"For too long, outdated regulations and bureaucratic barriers have held back businesses, workers, and consumers," Rustad said. "Our Free Trade and Mobility Act ensures that if something is good enough for another province, it’s good enough for British Columbia."
If passed the act would do away with restrictions on most trade between BC and other provinces and territories, allow skilled workers from across Canada to work in BC by recognizing equivalent certifications from other provinces, and ensure "regulatory cooperation" between bodies that issue licenses to facilitate "seamless worker mobility and business operations."
Goods produced or approved elsewhere in the country would be treated the same as as those made in BC.
"The NDP has done nothing to break down these barriers," Rustad lamented. "Instead, their policies have made it harder for businesses and workers to succeed. The Conservative Party of BC is stepping up to lead where the NDP has failed."
He made it clear that the act would still respect provincial sovereignty, and align with the principles set forth in the Canadian Free Trade Agreement.
"British Columbians deserve an economy that works for them," Rustad concluded. "This bill is about economic freedom, opportunity, and common sense."
The move comes amid increased pressure on Canada to trade domestically due to growing tensions with the United States under President Donald Trump. In recent weeks, leaders from across Canada have expressed a desire to break down barriers and make the country less reliant on our neighbours to the south.
