The Surrey Board of Trade (SBOT) and South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce (SSWRC) welcome the 2025 Speech from the Throne, delivered yesterday by His Majesty King Charles III, which outlined the Federal Government’s agenda for the new parliamentary session. The speech emphasized a strong, secure, and self-reliant Canada – principles that reflect the values and ambitions of Surrey and White Rock’s diverse and rapidly growing economy.
“The speech reflects a clear commitment to fiscal responsibility and economic diversification – key priorities for Surrey and White Rock’s business community,” said Joslyn Young, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade and Acting Executive Director of the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber. “We were especially encouraged by the reaffirmation of Canada’s sovereignty as the True North, strong and free, and by the commitment to remove barriers to internal trade – both important steps toward a stronger national economy.”
SBOT and SSWRC Highlight Policy Commitments and Concerns:
- Internal Trade Reform
The SBOT and SSWRC strongly supports the Federal Government’s commitment to removing interprovincial trade barriers. These long-standing restrictions hinder Canadian businesses and limit productivity. Reforming our internal economy is long overdue and essential to unlocking national growth. - Economic Diversification and Global Trade
The commitment to expand trade beyond overreliance on a single market is welcome news for a trade hub like Surrey. Canada’s future prosperity depends on new partnerships, innovation, and investment in export development. - Infrastructure and Workforce Investment
The focus on building and maintaining critical infrastructure – transportation, housing, and digital connectivity – supports Surrey and White Rock’s development as Canada’s fastest-growing urban region. Investments in skills training and labour mobility are equally critical. - Public Safety
SBOT and SSWRC appreciate the government’s stated focus on improving public safety. Business and community confidence depends on secure environments, and we look forward to further details on crime prevention, policing supports, and justice reforms that support vibrant, livable cities. - Fiscal Responsibility
The Surrey Board of Trade and South Surrey & White Rock Chamber are encouraged by the government’s expressed commitment to managing public finances responsibly. As inflation and cost-of-living concerns persist, fiscal discipline will be key to preserving economic stability. - Sovereignty and Unity
We welcome the clear and deliberate reaffirmation of Canadian sovereignty. At a time of global uncertainty, we must uphold the principles of democracy, pluralism, and national unity. Surrey and White Rock, as diverse and globally engaged cities, support these values deeply. - Concern Regarding Immigration Cap
While SBOT and SSWRC support responsible immigration planning, we are concerned about potential negative impacts of a hard immigration cap on labour market needs, particularly in sectors already facing chronic shortages. Immigration has been central to Surrey and White Rock’s success, and we urge the government to ensure policies remain responsive to economic realities.
“We look forward to reviewing the Federal Budget this fall to assess the detailed plans and investments behind yesterday’s commitments,” added Young. “We will continue to advocate for smart, inclusive economic policies that keep Surrey, White Rock and Canada moving forward.”
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Heather Booth
heather@businessinsurrey.com | 604.634.0341