August 02, 2024 | Category: News Releases

August 2, 2024—Vancouver, BC —The Western Transportation Advisory Council has submitted a pre-budget recommendation urging the federal government to prioritize recapitalizing the National Trade Corridor Fund (NTCF). This strategic investment aims to bolster Canada’s trade infrastructure, ensuring long-term economic growth and global competitiveness.

• Key points from the submission include:
• Economic significance of trade: Trade accounts for 67% of Canada’s GDP.
• Declining infrastructure quality: Our ranking for infrastructure quality has plummeted from 10th in 2008-09 to 26th in 2019.
• Productivity challenges: Canada ranks second lowest among G7 nations. 
• Focus on the Western Gateway: With two of Canada's biggest ports in the region, investment in the gateway is vital for long-term growth.
  

“WESTAC strongly recommends that the federal government recapitalize the National Trade Corridor Fund, with a special focus on projects of national significance in the Western Trade Corridor. This investment is critical for enhancing productivity, economic growth and ensuring Canada remains competitive on the global stage,” said Lindsay Kislock, President & CEO of WESTAC. 

Click here to read the submission.