June 13, 2025
RED FM News Desk
The Shipyard General Workers’ Federation is deeply disappointed with BC Ferries’ decision to outsource the construction of four new ferries to China’s state-owned China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyards.
Earlier this week, BC Ferries announced it has awarded a landmark contract to China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyards for the construction of four new major vessels, marking a significant step forward in the company’s ongoing fleet renewal efforts.
The ferry corporation has selected the Hong Kong-headquartered company — a state-owned enterprise administered by the Government of the People’s Republic of China — to build four new major vessels in what represents the most expensive shipbuilding order in the history of B.C.’s coastal ferry services. Each of these new vessels will rank among the largest in the fleet — comparable in size to, or slightly larger than, the existing Spirit-class vessels.
The federation states that in light of the current commitment to support Canadian industries, it is disheartening to witness such a significant project being awarded overseas, especially without adequate consultation with Canadian industry stakeholders.
They also said that despite Seaspan’s decision not to bid, many smaller shipyards in Canada have expressed their willingness and capability to collaborate as a consortium to keep this work within our borders. A cooperative effort among Canadian shipbuilders should be prioritized, as it would not only ensure quality and accountability but also contribute to the job market and economy at home.
They added, “We urge both the provincial and federal governments to reaffirm their commitments to ‘Buy BC’ and ‘Canada First’ campaigns by intervening in this matter.”
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