FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2025
Helping Businesses Navigate the Impact — Keep the Chamber Informed
PORT ALBERNI, BC — The U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods are a direct blow to businesses, workers, and families in the Alberni Valley. These tariffs don’t just disrupt trade—they drive up costs, threaten jobs, and undermine the economic stability of our entire region. Every day these tariffs remain in place, our businesses suffer, our supply chains weaken, and our community pays the price.
This isn’t just a trade dispute—it’s an immediate threat to the economic stability of businesses in our region" said Jolleen Dick, Chief Executive Officer of the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce. “Port Alberni is a community built on resilience and entrepreneurship, but resilience alone won’t pay the bills. If we don’t act fast, local businesses will face skyrocketing costs, layoffs, and supply chain chaos."
That’s why the Chamber is urging businesses to share their concerns and take immediate action. We are collecting impact statements from Alberni Valley businesses and will ensure their voices are heard at the highest levels of government. Businesses affected by these tariffs can contact the Chamber to outline their challenges—we will advocate directly with policymakers at provincial and federal levels.
Representing 220 businesses, the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce is focusing on efforts to mobilize solutions for local businesses affected by these tariffs. Much like during the pandemic, this is a time when businesses need to be nimble, plan forward, reduce costs, and explore opportunities to diversify their markets.
The Chamber will be meeting this Wednesday with our local MP, MLA, and regional community leaders to push for relief measures and share an update on immediate impacts.
"We will not stand by while Alberni Valley businesses take the hit," said Dick. "Our Chamber is here to fight for our members, push for policy solutions, and ensure that no business is left behind. We’ve weathered economic storms before, and together, we’ll get through this one."
As an Island Good Licensee, the Chamber is actively promoting locally sourced goods and encouraging consumers to shop close to home. Supporting businesses in the Alberni Valley, across Vancouver Island, and throughout British Columbia and Canada isn’t just a choice—it’s an investment in economic resilience. Now more than ever, prioritizing locally made products strengthens supply chains, sustains jobs, and ensures businesses can weather these challenges together.
Businesses can submit their experiences by contacting the Jolleen at the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce via email jolleen@albernichamber.ca or phone 250-724-6535.
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About the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce
The Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business in the Alberni Valley, dedicated to economic growth, advocacy, and business development. With a commitment to fostering a thriving business environment, the AVCC serves a diverse membership that includes entrepreneurs, small businesses, and large enterprises across the region. The Chamber also stewards the Port Alberni Visitor Information Centre and McLean Mill National Historic Site, contributing to tourism and local economic development.
As an active member of the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance, BC Chamber of Commerce, and Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the AVCC amplifies the concerns of local businesses at regional, provincial, and national levels—ensuring our business community has a strong voice in policy discussions and economic initiatives.
Media Contact
Jolleen Dick
Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce
250-724-6535
jolleen@albernichamber.ca
