News Releases
BC Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Premier Putting Small Business at the Centre of the Agenda
Vancouver, April 7, 2009 – The British Columbia Chamber of Commerce warmly welcomed the announcement today by Premier Gordon Campbell that will see BC’s small businesses enjoy the lowest income tax rates in Canada, as well a raising of the threshold when this tax rate would apply.
“The Premier clearly demonstrated that he recognises that small business will be integral to our ability to emerge from these challenging times stronger and more vibrant,” said John Winter, President and CEO of the BC Chamber of Commerce. “In his speech the Premier stated that you have to listen to small businesses to ensure you understand what their issues are and how to help them – it is clear that the Premier is not only listening but clearly understands that low taxes, reduced regulation and tools to enhance training are exactly what small business needs in these difficult times.”
The Premier announced that the Small Business Income Tax Rate will be reduced to the lowest level in Canada through the Carbon Tax revenues and that the small business income tax threshold will increase from $400,000 to $500,000 on January 1, 2010. The Premier also announced that the training tax credit program will be enhanced so that employers will be eligible to claim up to $4,000 annually per employee, a doubling of the current program.
“These announcements today build on a record that has gone a long way to build BC’s reputation as the most innovative and entrepreneurial economy in Canada. The Provincial Government continues to be a champion of small businesses concerns and we are particularly pleased to see that ensuring small business success will be an integral part of the election campaign,” added Winter.
- 30 -
For more information on this issue please contact;
John Winter
President & CEO
BC Chamber of Commerce
D 604 638 8110
C 604.376.3577
E jwinter@bcchamber.org
