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COVID-19 Resources for BC Businesses

With the coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) affecting business operations globally, the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia have implemented measures to ensure continued access to goods and services. Notably, essential travel, including that associated with goods and services remain open. Supply chains must closely adhere to recommended health and safety measures to continue operating.

There are resources available to businesses to ensure continued trade. Exporters are supported by organizations like Small Business BC, who have created resources for businesses impacted by the virus and compiled lists of resources created by other organizations. The BC Economic Development Association also posts regular updates sharing resources to support and inform businesses. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has developed pandemic preparedness resources to help Canadian exporters stay informed on federal regulations pertaining to trade. The B.C. business community has banded together to create a COVID-19 Cabinet to address the impact of the virus and measures to overcome it. The Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses has created a Small Business Help Centre. The Vancouver Board of Trade has developed a series of webinars for small businesses to build resiliency during this outbreak.

Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service has experts in 160 cities worldwide and is also updating resources for Canadian exporters.  A new dedicated online resource on COVID‑19 and Canada’s international trade includes information on financial support and services for exporters, international business travel and events, and customs and border information. The service can provide market-specific insights and guidance to help mitigate the impacts of COVID-19, including answering frequently asked questions for Canadian exporters.

This global pandemic offers an opportunity for unity and support of Canada’s strong business and trade relationships. The Province has partnered with the Digital Technology Supercluster to create the COVID-19 Supply Hub for made-in-BC solutions to the challenges posed by the virus. Domestic companies looking to offer supplies or support should visit gov.bc.ca/supplyhub. Your support can bolster supplies and services for healthcare and other heavily impacted industries.

You can contact us via the Trade and Invest British Columbia website if you have questions and follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter for regular updates.