BC’s New Agriculture Task Force Expands Response to US Tariff Threats

(Image courtesy CBC)

The British Columbia government’s newly launched task force on agriculture and food security aims to address risks posed by US tariffs, shifting the province’s focus toward protecting its food supply and agricultural markets amid ongoing trade uncertainty.

Premier David Eby said the task force would examine ways to secure BC’s food supply and assist farmers in finding new markets. The initiative involves 15 representatives from farming, seafood harvesting, food processing, distribution, and retail sectors.

The agriculture-focused task force is a shift in BC’s strategy, moving beyond immediate retaliatory measures. Yet, given the government's previous fragmented responses, questions remain over whether this effort will provide genuine long-term solutions or simply add another layer of complexity to an already disjointed approach.

"We must protect our food sources and our agricultural sector in the face of the threat of unfair and damaging tariffs," Eby said.

However, critics argue that the province's strategy continues to lack cohesion, with previous measures like halting US liquor imports and fast-tracking resource projects receiving pushback for potentially causing unintended economic damage. Industry leaders previously warned that retaliatory measures, such as the US liquor ban, could harm BC businesses as much as American producers.

The task force, co-chaired by the deputy minister of agriculture and food, alongside leaders from the BC Agriculture Council and BC Food & Beverage, introduces a new element in BC's response. However, concerns remain over whether it represents a robust, long-term strategy or another reactive measure.

Agriculture Minister Lana Popham said the task force will gather input from across the food supply chain to build “resilience.” Its work will include recommendations on water, land, labor, competitiveness, and investment.