Today, there are approximately 200,000 Indigenous people in British Columbia representing 198 distinct First Nations as well as Métis and Inuit groups, each with their own unique traditions and history. Many Indigenous communities have developed a broad range of business interests including in tourism, mining, agrifoods and forestry, and contribute to the growth of these sectors and of the province’s economy.  A great example of mining exploration companies working with First Nations is the BC Regional Mining Alliance (BC RMA).  This is a northwest regional partnership among the Tahltan Central Government, the Ni... continue reading

Working closely with B.C.’s cherry growers, the federal government has secured access for fresh B.C. cherries to the Japanese market. According to industry experts B.C. cherry exports to Japan could be worth up to $8 million annually. The increased access to the Japanese market will advance competitiveness and create new opportunities for the fresh cherry sector, as well as drive economic growth and create more job opportunities in British Columbia. In 2017, Japan imported over $62.7 million of fresh cherries from around the world. This agreement will help Canada to reach the target of $75 billion in annual agrifood exports... continue reading

A Vancouver-based for-profit social enterprise continues to do great things for both the environment and for humanity. The Plastic Bank has been enabling the exchange of plastic for money and necessities to help people living in poverty build better futures and support their families. Their mission is to stop ocean plastic by gathering people together to monetize waste while improving lives. Shaun Frankson and David Katz founded The Plastic Bank in 2013 and have grown their company to include collection projects in Haiti and the Philippines with plans to expand their services to Brazil and Indonesia. The Plastic Bank pays low-in... continue reading

Building on past successes at this event, several British Columbia fruit and vegetable companies will be part of the Canadian pavilion at Asia Fruit Logistica 2018.  This is a significant trade show where every link of the international fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain meet face to face to network and build business opportunities. The annual event takes place September 5-7 in Hong Kong, where the city serves as an international hub and gateway to do business in China and the entire Asian market. In 2017, the show featured 813 companies from 43 countries, which is a remarkable expansion from previous years. British Col... continue reading