The world is changing. B.C.’s economic future is now at risk from shifting global alliances and rising trade barriers.
Mining is one of our biggest strengths, especially critical minerals which are the backbone of low-emission energy, technology and national security. Now is the time for B.C. to move to secure predictable permitting timelines and advance priority projects, otherwise the opportunities will go elsewhere.
What does any of this have to do with Surrey and other urban centres around B.C.?
Surrey is a mining community. This may be surprising to some, but Surrey is one of the top five urban communities for mine spending in B.C. Mining is good news for the province's urban centres when it comes to family-supporting jobs and local economic opportunities.
The mining sector purchased $1.4 billion worth of goods and services from 1,125 mine suppliers located across 18 Metro Vancouver communities in 2022 (Source: One Province, One Economy).
Surrey is home to 185 mining suppliers who generate more than $72 million in economic activity annually. Surrey is also a leading hub for the mining industry supply chain, with transportation companies, manufacturers and other service providers who support mines across B.C., elsewhere in Canada and overseas.
Several well-known Surrey-based companies play vital roles in the mining industry. Van Kam Freightways on Grace Road provides critical trucking services, ensuring B.C. mines receive the consumables and spare parts they need to operate 24/7.
Precision Pulley and Idler, located on 190 Street, manufactures cutting-edge pulleys and idlers for mining projects worldwide. Industrial Equipment Manufacturing (IEM), another Surrey-based company, specializes in conveyer equipment, and recently completed work for a mine in Nunavut.
Other key industry players in Surrey include leading engine service providers Cummins Western Canada and Cullen Diesel Power, both of which have facilities in the city.
Beyond Surrey, many other businesses in neighbouring communities — Delta, Langley and across Metro Vancouver — are also benefiting from B.C.’s mining sector, creating well-paying jobs and driving investment.
These opportunities will only grow as B.C.’s critical minerals sector grows.
However, with global trade barriers and shifting alliances posing risks to the province’s future prosperity, it is essential that B.C. strengthens its role in the mining and critical minerals sector.
B.C. has a choice: The province can lead the country in critical minerals development, or lose ground to more aggressive provinces. The path forward demands urgency, collaboration and a commitment to building an economy that works for B.C. workers, communities and future generations.
Surrey, as an emerging and increasingly key player in the province’s mining sector, stands to benefit significantly.
Visit the Mining Association of British Columbia on mining.bc.ca.
This content is part of the Surrey Economic Development 2025 magazine, produced by Surrey Now-Leader, the Surrey Board of Trade and the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce. You can find the full e-edition here.
