The Surrey Board of Trade has announced its support of new enhanced provincial tax incentives for British Columbia’s film and TV sector.
The incentives, announced last week by premier David Eby, are targeted at attracting major productions and retaining thousands of skilled, high-paying jobs in the industry in B.C.
“These increased incentives solidify BC’s position as a global leader in the creative industries,” commented Jasroop Gosal, interim spokesperson and policy and research manager for SBOT.
“This is a win for filmmakers and for businesses and workers across the province, including here in Surrey,” he added.
Starting Jan. 1, 2025, Film Incentive BC and production services tax credits will rise to 36 per cent, with a 2 per cent bonus for productions exceeding $200 million in BC expenditures.
The changes are aimed at revitalizing the film industry sector, which recorded a decline in jobs and productions over the past year.
But while approving the new incentives, SBOT is urging the province to amend its regional tax credit policy by removing Surrey and Delta from the 'Designated Vancouver Area'.
This would allow local productions to access even more tax credits, Gosal said, which would level the playing field and drive further economic opportunities in the region.
“The inclusion of Surrey and Delta in the Designated Vancouver Area limits local growth in one of BC’s fastest-growing economic regions,” Gosal added.
“Revisiting this policy will amplify the impact of the new incentives and strengthen the economic benefits for our communities.”