British Columbia’s Premier David Eby recently concluded a six-day trade mission to India, where he emphasized the province’s strong economic ties and the potential for collaboration in energy and mining sectors. Eby and a large delegation, including Jobs Minister Ravi Kahlon, concluded their visit on Saturday. They held discussions with Indian companies in lectures and interactive sessions across major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh and Bangalore.
So far in 2024, British Columbia’s goods exports to India have already reached an impressive $1.3 billion. This was enough to make the province the country’s top exporter to India. Perceptions from those talks largely focused on energy—and specifically mining. Indian investors told B.C. that they were very keen on investing in B.C.’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects. Indian companies have shown the greatest interest in the proposed Kitimat LNG terminal. They are taking aim at the proposed Ksi Lisims LNG facility in northern B.C.
Humanity during his visit, Eby observed that India’s hunger for B.C. gas is increasing. As he said to us, “The urgency around energy is massive here. India is energetically seeking to enhance its energy security. The country’s pledged goal is to become less dependent on imported fossil fuels—including oil and gas.
Eby emphasized that no company or politician he encountered throughout the trip lacked confidence in India’s growth trajectory. Each of them still fell into the trap of expecting it to continue that seven to eight percent annual rate much longer. The Premier touted the thrilling opportunity for increasing new investment in B.C.’s robust mining sector. Indian companies are enthusiastic about collaborating with the B.C. government to gain entry to local, mining-friendly businesses.
Eby’s delegation included a remote video briefing from that city on Thursday. He focused in particular on the need to build strategic export partnerships between BC and Indian business.
“They’re doing a huge internal push to reduce reliance on imported petrol products like oil and gas and diesel and so on.” – David Eby
The Premier’s statement underscores the importance of India diversifying their energy sources as a critical imperative. The challenge presents exciting new opportunities for British Columbia’s economy. The province is currently making big moves to reinforce its connections with India. Its priority has now shifted to actually finalizing investment decisions for LNG projects.
Eby took the opportunity to set the record straight on recent coverage of the Bishnoi gang. He dismissed their gravity, claiming that they do not present serious issues for Canada-India trade and investment relations.
