B.C.’s acting Jobs and Economic Growth Minister says the province is working to protect workers and businesses as U.S. tariffs continue to put pressure on the economy.

“People and businesses in British Columbia continue to show their steady strength and resilience as new and continuing tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump create unjustified challenges in some of our most important sectors.", said Adrian Dix, acting Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth.

“Today’s Statistics Canada’s Labour Force Survey report showed 42,000 jobs lost nationally in August, with B.C. having the smallest decline among large provinces at 5,500."

Dix made the comments following the release of Statistics Canada’s August Labour Force Survey, which showed B.C. lost 5,500 jobs last month.

The province’s unemployment rate rose to 6.5 percent.

He says the decline comes after B.C. added more than 50,000 jobs between May and July, and that the province continues to lead the country in average hourly wages, at just over 39 dollars.

Tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump are reportedly having a significant impact on key industries, particularly forestry.

Dix says the province will continue investing in major projects, supporting businesses and working with Ottawa to strengthen the economy and create new opportunities for British Columbians.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.