British Columbia’s labour market continued its upward hiring trend in June, adding 5,000 people, a 0.2 per cent increase and its fourth consecutive gain. The province has largely navigated the tariff environment unscathed, with year-over-year employment growth at 1.6 per cent.

The unemployment rate surprisingly dropped to 5.6 per cent from 6.4 per cent, signalling tightening labour market conditions. While this is likely positive, it was driven by an unusual fluctuation in labour force participation rates, which retraced after a surge in May. Such sharp fluctuations often reverse, so June’s drop should be viewed with caution.

Despite overall positive growth, some weak areas were evident. Part-time employment led the gains, increasing 3.7 per cent (21,300 people), while full-time work contracted.........

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