Sentiment among small and medium-sized businesses improved in June, according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) Barometer Survey.

The long-term 12-month confidence index rose more than seven points to 47.3 in June from 40.1 in May. The short-term index also gained 5.1 points to 47.7, up from 42.6. Despite the improvements, confidence remained below the neutral benchmark of 50, due to tariff-related uncertainties.

Canadian exporters and importers remained downbeat, but sentiment firmed. The exporter index rose to 36.1 points from 26.8, while importer sentiment increased to 37.4 points from 28.1. These index values are still well below their levels in the 60s at the end of 2024.

In B.C., the long-term index climbed 15.1 points to 53.4, the second-highest improvement among provinces, just behind PEI. The short-term index also........

© BIV