British Columbia will send a trade delegation to India for a five-day mission beginning January 12, aimed at expanding market access for provincial businesses and strengthening economic ties with one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, Premier David Eby said.
The delegation will include British Columbia’s Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth Ravi Kahlon and senior officials, who are scheduled to meet government representatives and business leaders in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Bengaluru. The mission is intended to promote British Columbia’s trade interests and identify new opportunities across key sectors.
Speaking in Vancouver, Premier Eby said the visit is focused on creating fresh avenues for Canadian businesses at a time when some industries, particularly forestry, are facing challenges due to tariffs imposed by the United States. He noted that diversifying export destinations has become increasingly important amid global political uncertainty and shifting trade dynamics.
India’s rapid economic growth and its trajectory toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy make it a strategic partner for British Columbia, the Premier said. The mission is also expected to advocate for cooperation in clean energy, mining and technology, sectors where British Columbia companies are seeking international expansion.
According to Minister Ravi Kahlon, British Columbia is Canada’s largest provincial trading partner with India. Bilateral trade between the province and India reached $2.1 billion in 2024, accounting for roughly a quarter of Canada’s total exports to the country. He highlighted that British Columbia is home to around 12,000 technology companies and has the fastest-growing life sciences sector in Canada, positioning the province well for deeper engagement with India’s innovation-driven economy.
Premier Eby also referred to recent trade outreach efforts in Asia, noting that earlier missions resulted in significant commercial progress, including developments related to the LNG Phase 2 project, which is expected to reach a final investment decision later this year.
The visit comes at a time when India is pursuing fair and balanced trade agreements with 14 countries and regional groupings, representing nearly 50 nations. These include the United States, the European Union, Gulf Cooperation Council countries, New Zealand, Israel, Canada, South Africa and the Mercosur bloc. Domestic initiatives such as the National Manufacturing Mission and the Rs 25,000 crore Export Promotion Mission are further supporting India’s push to expand manufacturing capacity and exports.
The British Columbia mission is expected to explore partnerships aligned with these priorities while promoting the province’s capabilities in energy, natural resources and advanced technologies.
