B.C. premier says Asia trade mission aims to reduce risks amid international unease

British Columbia Premier David Eby says his trade mission to Asia is part of an effort to grow trade and reduce the risks that come with international uncertainties.

British Columbia Premier David Eby says his trade mission to Asia is part of an effort to grow trade and reduce the risks that come with international uncertainties.

The premier and his delegation have not visited China, B.C.'s second largest trade partner, during the two-week trip but instead focused on Japan, South Korea and Singapore and have met, so far, with a range of businesses including a large Japanese rental housing company looking to break into the Canadian market.

"Right now we see the tensions caused by the war in Ukraine, and sanctions on Russia, the relationship between the US and China, Canada and China, and the volatility of international relationships," Eby said on the phone from Singapore.

"And it's very obvious to me and to many British Columbians that being dependent on one or two major trading partners disproportionately is going to really affect us if the worst happens."

Tensions between China and Canada have been growing amid accusations of foreign interference and election meddling.

Last week, B.C. MP Jenny Kwan became the latest politician to report that Canada’s spy agency confirmed her long-held belief that she is being targeted by the Chinese government.

B.C. exports to mainland China totalled $8.48 billion last year, according to government statistics. That's second only to the United States with more than $37 billion.