The Economic Importance of Fraser River Luncheon

On July 15^th, 13 Chamber of Commerce and Boards of Trade in the Lower Mainland released a report titled, ‘The Economic Importance of the Lower Fraser River’ highlighting the national economic significance of the Fraser River, and threats to future growth.

The Lower Fraser River is a vitally important resource for not just the Lower Mainland and British Columbia but Canada as a whole. Port activity on the Lower Fraser rivals Canadian traffic on the St. Lawrence Seaway. Port Metro Vancouver as a whole is the largest port in Canada and the largest port by export tonnage in all of North America.

The next step in the process of bringing greater awareness and attention to the major risks facing the sustainability and prosperity of the Lower Fraser River will be hosting a luncheon hosted on October 16th at the Sheraton Vancouver Guildford Hotel in Surrey. This luncheon event will explore in greater detail the findings of the research report and how to best act on them. Speakers will also identify opportunities for economic development and opportunities for our business communities.

Ultimately, the sustainability of the Fraser River and adjacent region must be addressed in a manner which finds a balance between environmental, social and economic factors. This event is intended to begin a holistic dialogue which will put in motion a call for all levels of government and First Nations to take a lead role in bringing together the relevant Fraser River stakeholders and then empower this group to develop a collaborative regional strategy, addressing short and long term requirements for the sustainability of the entire Lower Fraser River and adjacent lands.
 
This event is being organized by the Surrey Board of Trade and New Westminster Chamber of Commerce on behalf of:

Richmond Chamber of Commerce, Burnaby Board of Trade, Langley Chamber of Commerce, Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce, Vancouver Board of Trade, Maple Ridge Chamber of Commerce, Mission Chamber of Commerce, Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, Hope Chamber of Commerce, Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce, Delta Chamber of Commerce
 
For more information call Anita Huberman at 604-634-0342 or Cori Lynn Germiquet at 604-521-7781