Provincial task force to focus on food security, growth and economy

Feb 20, 2025 | 3:00 PM

The B.C. Government will form a new task force in preparation for tariff threats from the United States.

As B.C. and Canada faces a threat of 25 per cent tariffs from south of the border, the new Premier’s task force on agriculture and food economy will aim to increase the growth and competitiveness of B.C. products.

“All British Columbians want reliable access to healthy and affordable food,” Premier David Eby, said.

“We must protect our food sources and our agricultural sector in the face of the threat of unfair and damaging tariffs. The respected industry leaders in our task force will provide the government with first-hand knowledge of how to prepare and respond to these threats, as we continue to grow our agricultural sector.”

The task force will be made up of 15 representatives from across the agriculture and food sector. They will include representatives from the farming sector, seafood harvesters, food and beverage processers, and distributions and retailers. It will be co-chaired by a leader of the B.C. Agricultural Council (BCAC).

Wine Sector Support Program

Federal budget renews program to support wine sector

Nov 6, 2026

Labour Force Report

Regional and provincial unemployment improved this October

Nov 6, 2026

460+ New Homes Online

Vernon already making significant progress to hit housing targets

Nov 6, 2026

“B.C.’s agriculture sector has been a significant economic contributor and an important piece of our province’s identity for more than a century, but the long-term viability of farming faces several challenges,” Danielle Synotte, executive director of the BCAC.

“If the economic growth potential of the sector is to be realized, we need to re-evaluate the way we see and value agriculture. The Premier’s task force is an opportunity to build a shared vision for the sector that involves innovative ideas and a shift in perspective, focusing on solutions, and BCAC is thrilled to be a partner on this very important work.”

The task force will hold its first meeting virtually in the week of Mar. 3 – 7, and will then meet in person on a quarterly basis over the following 12 to 18 months. From those meetings, the task force members will provide targeted recommendations to the province relating to key topics such as water, land, labour, competitiveness and investment.

“B.C.’s agricultural communities have demonstrated time and again how strongly they come together and join forces in times of need,” Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food, said.

“By including the voices of farmers, processors, retailers and distributors in this task force, we are including expertise from farm to table in building a resilient and sustainable food system that is competitive and strengthens B.C.’s economy and food supply.”

by Liam Verster

View Comments