B.C.’s unemployment rate drops below national average in April Labour Force Survey

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – B.C.’s unemployment rate fell below the national average in April, according to the latest data from Statistics Canada.

The agency’s latest Labour Force Survey shows the provincial unemployment rate at 5.0 per cent, down from 6.9 per cent in March and below the national average of 6.1 per cent. 

B.C. gained 23,400 jobs in April, 23,100 of which were in the private sector, the most significant private sector increase among the provinces.

Employment increased in the Northeast to 38,300 in April, with unemployment rates dropping to 2.9 per cent. 

In March, there were 37,900 B.C. people employed in Northeast B.C., and the unemployment rate was 2.9 per cent.

“Today’s Labour Force Survey data shows an encouraging increase in information, culture and recreation, and professional, scientific and technical services, which is great news for B.C.’s technology and film sectors,” Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation said in a statement from the B.C. government. 

“While B.C. is an economic leader, people, businesses and communities have been impacted by global downturns in markets and inflation. Government continues to take action to create new opportunities throughout B.C. so everyone can benefit from a strong and sustainable economy,” Bailey said. 

This week, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) announced a $110 rebate for residents and commercial drivers. For the sixth year in a row, basic rates also will remain unchanged until March 31, 2026. 

The BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund will invest around $180 million in high-value manufacturing projects in B.C. to promote value-added innovation and jobs. 

So far, around 1,100 jobs have been created, and around 2,000 jobs have been protected throughout the province. 

“We are continuing to invest in local economies to provide new, diversified opportunities that will create jobs and ensure long-lasting prosperity for people throughout our province,” Bailey said. 

The Canadian unemployment rate has remained stable at 6.1 per cent since March.