Economic Impact
B.C.’s maritime sector creates thousands of jobs, supports communities and boosts Canada’s economic and social well-being
From Ship to Shore
BCMEA Members are Canada’s Vital Trade Link to the World
B.C. ports are crucial for Canadians, serving as vital gateways for the movement of goods between our country and global markets. These ports handle a significant portion of the country’s imports and exports, including key commodities such as grain, potash, steel-making coal, lumber, automobiles, electronics, food and consumer goods.
The strategic location of B.C. ports gives Canada a competitive edge in the global marketplace. Safe and efficient port operations and advanced infrastructure ensure the smooth flow of goods, supporting the national economy, driving economic growth and facilitating international trade connections.
Economic Impact By the Numbers
$800M Cargo Handled Daily
$800 million worth of cargo handled each day by West Coast ports.
25% of Canada’s Traded Goods
25% of Canada’s total traded good handled by West Coast ports.
$2.7B in National GDP
$2.7 billion in National Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
$5.2B Total Economic Output
$5.2 billion in total economic output in 2020.
96,000 Jobs Across B.C.
96,000 jobs across B.C. directly and indirectly supporting Canada’s West Coast ports.
$404M Taxation Revenue
$404 million paid annually by BCMEA members in taxation revenues to all levels of government.
$204M Federal Port Authorities
$204 million paid annually by BCMEA members to federal Port Authorities in British Columbia.
$950M Investments
$950 million in private sector investments in 2020 in gateway infrastructure & expansion projects in B.C.
Economic Impact Study
DISCOVER HOW B.C. PORTS DRIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH
Every day, Canadians depend on the nation’s West Coast ports to trade with the rest of the world. The BCMEA Economic Impact Study highlights the significant contributions of the B.C.’s maritime sector to Canada and the global supply chain. The Study illustrates the industry’s role in facilitating global trade, driving investment in infrastructure, supporting communities and contributing substantially to provincial and national GDP.
Discover Our Member’s Impact