The world is pivoting, and British Columbia’s economic future hangs in the balance, threatened by the shifting sands of global alliances and the rising walls of trade barriers. In this tumultuous landscape, one of B.C.’s most formidable assets is its mining sector, particularly the extraction of critical minerals that underpin low-emission energy, advanced technology, and national security. The time to act is now. B.C. must secure predictable permitting timelines and fast-track priority projects, or watch as opportunities slip through its fingers to more agile competitors.
But what does this have to do with urban centres like Surrey and the broader Metro Vancouver area? The answer might surprise you. Surrey, often perceived as a bustling metropolis, is, in fact, a mining community. It ranks among the top five urban areas in B.C. for mine-related spending, a testament to the sector’s profound impact on local economies.
In 2022 alone, the mining sector injected $1.4 billion into Metro Vancouver’s economy, purchasing goods and services from 1,125 suppliers spread across 18 communities. Surrey, with its 185 mining suppliers, generated over $72 million in economic activity annually. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people, families, and communities thriving on the back of a robust mining industry.
Surrey is more than just a beneficiary; it’s a hub for the mining industry’s supply chain. Transportation companies, manufacturers, and service providers here support mines across B.C., Canada, and even overseas. Companies like Van Kam Freightways, Precision Pulley and Idler, and Industrial Equipment Manufacturing (IEM) are not just local businesses; they are global players, contributing to the mining industry’s backbone. Cummins Western Canada and Cullen Diesel Power, both based in Surrey, are leading engine service providers, further cementing the city’s role in the mining ecosystem.
Beyond Surrey, the ripple effect is evident. Communities like Delta, Langley, and others across Metro Vancouver are reaping the benefits of B.C.’s mining sector, with well-paying jobs and significant investments driving local economic growth. As B.C.’s critical minerals sector expands, so too will these opportunities.
However, the global stage is fraught with challenges. Trade barriers and shifting alliances pose significant risks to B.C.’s prosperity. To navigate this complex landscape, B.C. must double down on its mining and critical minerals sector. The choice is stark: lead the country in critical minerals development or cede ground to more aggressive provinces.
The path forward is clear but demanding. It requires urgency, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to building an economy that works for B.C. workers, communities, and future generations. Surrey, with its growing influence in the mining sector, stands to gain immensely. But to seize this opportunity, B.C. must act decisively. The Mining Association of British Columbia is a crucial resource in this journey, offering insights and advocacy for a thriving mining sector. Visit mining.bc.ca to learn more and get involved.
This content is part of the Surrey Economic Development 2025 magazine, a collaborative effort by Surrey Now-Leader, the Surrey Board of Trade, and the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce. The full e-edition is available for a deeper dive into Surrey’s economic landscape and the role of the mining sector. The time to act is now, and the stakes are high. B.C. must seize this moment to secure its economic future and ensure that its urban centres, like Surrey, continue to thrive.
