B.C. posts job gains in 2025 despite December dip, province says

British Columbia added more than 24,000 jobs over the past year despite a modest employment decline in December, according to the latest Labour Force Survey released by Statistics Canada.

In a statement issued on behalf of Jobs and Economic Growth Minister Ravi Kahlon, Forests Minister Ravi Parmar said the province recorded a net gain of 24,100 jobs in 2025, including 16,800 positions in construction. The government says the growth reflects continued public investment in schools, hospitals and transportation infrastructure across the province.

The survey showed B.C. lost 3,300 jobs in December, though the unemployment rate held steady at 6.4 per cent, remaining the third lowest in Canada. Nationally, unemployment rose to 6.8 per cent. The province also saw an increase of 5,600 private-sector jobs in December, and a year-over-year gain of 25,600 private-sector positions.

Statistics Canada data also showed average hourly wages in B.C. rose to $38.60 in December, the highest among provinces. Women’s employment increased by 11,100 jobs during the month, the largest gain nationally.

The statement acknowledged economic pressures tied to global trade uncertainty, including impacts on the forest sector. The province says it is focusing on attracting new investment, expanding market access and supporting well-paying jobs as it looks to reduce reliance on U.S. trade.

The government highlighted the Premier’s ongoing trade mission to India as part of its Look West strategy, which aims to expand exports beyond the U.S. market. B.C. already has the highest share of exports to India among Canadian provinces, and officials say the mission is intended to strengthen ties in sectors such as clean energy, sustainable forestry and technology.