February 20,2026
RED FM News Desk
Premier David Eby faced pointed criticism over his government’s latest budget during a breakfast meeting with business leaders in Victoria.
Bridgitte Anderson, president and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, said she hopes the premier heard the “concerns and anxiety” from the business community regarding the $13.1-billion deficit and new tax measures. One notable change is the expansion of the provincial sales tax to certain professional services, which Anderson warned could increase costs for small businesses, major projects, and housing development.
Many business leaders are questioning how the province plans to return to a “sustainable path” when the deficit is projected to grow by nearly $4 billion next year.
Eby noted that rising deficits and debt are a global challenge and stressed that his government is addressing inherited infrastructure debt through investments in schools, hospitals, and transportation. He emphasized that economic growth, supported by major projects and federal funding for defence in B.C., will be crucial for reducing the deficit.
Anderson acknowledged the business community is “not on the same page” as the government, while Eby welcomed the “frank and tough exchange” as part of open dialogue. Following the discussion, the board assigned the budget a “D” grade.
The premier later said he values “honest assessments and hard questions” during such exchanges, which included a question-and-answer session with Anderson.
Loading ...
