MSABC Welcomes Removal of PST on Electricity and Innovation Commitment in Budget 2017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Vancouver, B.C. —  The Mining Suppliers Association of British Columbia (MSABC) welcomes the Government of B.C.’s commitment to phase out the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on electricity used by businesses, with an initial reduction from 7% to 3.5% and full elimination by April 1, 2019. “The removal of PST used in mining was a key commitment made by the BC NDP as part of our industry’s recent Vote Mining campaign and we are glad to see Government delivering on this measure,” said Rodger McLean, Chair of MSABC & Senior Manager, Innovative Solutions at Britco Construction. “No other jurisdiction in Canada charges full PST on electricity used for mining so this will help level the playing field for mines and other businesses in our province,” added McLean.

Today’s Budget reaffirmed the Government of B.C.’s support for the extension of the BC Mining Flow-Through Share Tax Credit and the Mining Exploration Tax Credit. It also commits $5 million to promote the development of a more sustainable economy. “From how we design mines to how we design the trucks that work them, innovation is an important key to the success of our industry” said McLean. “We look forward to working with the Emerging Economy Task Force to ensure government policies are developed to enable industry to adopt new technologies and processes while maintaining competitiveness in the global marketplace.”

MSABC comprises suppliers, contractors and consultants to the B.C. mining industry who are committed to promoting the sustainability of this valuable resource sector.

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For more information please contact MSABC at 604-681-4321 (Ext: 104) or by email