The Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce is lending its full support to a policy initiative that will support the coal mining industry in the East Kootenay and beyond.
This proposed policy is designed to promote and sustain British Columbia’s steelmaking coal industry—an essential economic driver for both the local and provincial economies.
“The Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce, along with several other regional Chambers, stands firmly behind this initiative,” said Stacey Brensrud, Executive Director. “We believe strategic and informed policy direction is key to a responsible approach to long-term viability of this sector, and to the continued prosperity of communities like ours.”
Other benefits include the support of local procurement, contribution of significant tax revenue to fund vital community services and
infrastructure.
To support the industry’s continued success, global competitiveness and our strengthened national sovereignty, the proposed policy encourages the Provincial Government to:
1. Promote the environmental and productive advantages of high-quality Canadian steelmaking coal in international markets.
2. Collaborate with industry stakeholders to develop policies that foster growth and long-term sustainability in BC’s steelmaking coal sector.
3. Increase public awareness of BC’s steelmaking coal resources, their role in global steel production, and their broader economic contributions.
The steelmaking (metallurgical) coal sector is a cornerstone of economic stability in the East Kootenay region. It generates 5345 full-time well-paying jobs, with over 500 of those workers living in Cranbrook, contributing $1.5 billion dollars to the provincial economy each year, $400 million of which stays in the East Kootenay region.
As part of its broader advocacy efforts, the Cranbrook Chamber is committed to a proactive, collaborative approach in representing the interests of its members. The Chamber invites all members to engage with its Advocacy Committee to share input and help shape future initiatives.
The policy will to be put forward at the BC Chamber of Commerce AGM by the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce, June 4, 2025, in Nanaimo, B.C.
