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Dear BCCTC Members and Friends,
We invite you to explore the latest edition of the BCCTC newsletter, where we share timely updates, business opportunities, and insights to support your professional growth and success.
In this issue, we highlight significant developments in UK–Canada relations. Notably, in April, we welcomed a new mutual recognition agreement between the UK and Canada that facilitates the cross-border registration of eligible architects. Coming into effect on May 14, this agreement will streamline the process for qualified architects to practise in either country, opening the door to exciting professional opportunities across the Atlantic.
You'll also find a curated list of opportunities for UK companies operating in Canada, along with updates from our members and forums. Additionally, save the date for 10 June when we will share insights on how to leverage international trade agreements through our extensive network, with a particular focus on the British Chambers of Commerce in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Finally, we encourage you to connect with the vibrant network of British organisations across Canada. These groups host events that celebrate our shared heritage and foster community engagement.
Do you have an idea for a program? Want to host an event? Let us know! info@bcctc.ca
🇬🇧🇨🇦 British Canadian Chamber of Trade and Commerce 🇬🇧🇨🇦
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BCCTC May Newsletter
We welcome Canada's new leader!
- On April 28th, Canadians elected Mark Carney as their next Prime Minister
- PM Carney is making the UK-Canada relationship a priority
UK-Canada Industry News and Updates
- UK and Canada sign new agreement that helps eligible architects register between each country
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International Financing Forum with Ontario Creates
- UK-CanadaTrade and Investment Factsheet
- Canadian Chamber of Commerce Launches Safer Businesses Council
- The B7 Summit Comes to Ottawa
Opportunities for UK companies!
UK Trade Deals
- UK-US Trade Deal
- UK-India Trade Deal
Member and Forum Updates
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Navigating Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation: Key Guidelines for Sending Commercial Electronic Messages and The Trade War and Employment Law By Fiona Brown, Aird & Berlis LLP
- Welcome new BCCTC members: Parth Davé
Members' corner
- Tools from BCCTC Member ACCA to accelerate your Career and your Business
British community in Canada
- Throne Speech Viewing Party with the Royal Commonwealth Society Toronto Branch
- International Churchill Society Canada's 27th Annual Joint Dinner
- The Crown Society of Canada's Celebration of Service to the Crown
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The Hon Company of Freemen of the City of London of NA reception with the 696th Lord Mayor of the City of London Alderman Alastair King DL
- 43rd annual Oxford University vs Cambridge University Alumni Cricket Match
Upcoming Events
- May 7: Niagara Networks
- * May 22: European Networking Event - Host: Canada-Poland Chamber of Commerce *
- June 10: International Trade Agreements with British Chambers of Commerce in Latin America and the Caribbean.
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June 10: 2025 UK-Latin America Tech Forum with Canning House at Google's London Headquarters
EUCCAN
- May 22: Reigniting the Canada-EU Business Space
Recent initiatives from our members and network
- Canning House: Mexico-UK Summit
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New Markets Corner
We are delighted to offer BCCTC members information and connections to explore opportunities in new markets. Both Canada and the UK are part of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) which includes 10 other countries in the Indo-Pacific. Stay tuned for our event on June 10th where we will deep-dive into this topic.
In April we invited you to explore Italy at "Invest in Italy" and Latin America with “Beyond Tariffs: How Businesses Can Adapt, Diversify, and Grow” all they way from Toronto, then Canning House - the UK’s leading forum on Latin America - convened the UK and Latin America at the inaugural Mexico-UK Summit with former HC to Canada, now British Ambassador to Mexico, Ms Susannah Goshko.
We are pleased to keep you informed on potential opportunities for Canadian companies through our networks and by sharing information on trade agreements that will help your international journey - save the date for our upcoming webinar on how to leverage them in partnerships with the British Chambers of Commerce in Latin America and the Caribbean.
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Canada Has A New Leader
We would like to congratulate Mark Carney on his election as Canada’s new Prime Minister!
PM Carney takes office at a time of significant uncertainty, both domestically and globally. He has already emphasized the importance of Canada’s international partnerships and placed a strong emphasis on Canada’s relationship with the UK.
Since becoming Liberal Party Leader in March, and assuming the role of Prime Minister, PM Carney's first trip abroad included a visit to the UK. During his visit, Carney met with UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, to reaffirm the strong UK-Canada relationship, to explore opportunities to expand UK-Canada trade ties and express a shared commitment to transatlantic security.
During his visit, PM Carney also met with His Majesty King Charles III, a symbolic meeting that highlights the deep historical and cultural bonds between the two nations.
Following his most recent election win, PM Carney also announced that King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit Canada on May 26-27. The Prime Minister said he has asked the King to formally open Canada’s 45th Parliament on May 27 by delivering the Speech from the Throne, which will set out the government’s agenda. King Charles will be the first monarch in nearly 50 years to deliver the Speech, underscoring the importance and strength of the UK-Canada relationship during such unpredictable times.
Speaking about the upcoming Royal Visit, PM Carney said, “this is a historic honour that matches the weight of our times.”
| | UK-Canada Industry News and Updates | | |
UK and Canada sign new agreement that helps eligible architects register between each country
On April 23, the UK’s Architects Registration Board (ARB) and Canada’s Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada / Regroupement des Ordres d’Architectes du Canada (ROAC) signed a new mutual recognition agreement (MRA).
Taking effect on May 14, the agreement will allow eligible architects who are registered in the UK or Canada to benefit from a streamlined and quicker process to practise their profession in the two countries, creating exciting new opportunities across the Atlantic.
The agreement recognises the high and equivalent competency standards of both countries, and the importance of qualified professionals in order to help protect the public.
Canada and the UK are leaders in architecture and key trading partners, with over £163m of architecture services being traded in 2023.
This agreement will now strengthen the way in which architects work between the two countries by helping the profession share its skills and services.
Many popular buildings in Canada have been designed by famous British architects – The Well in Toronto was designed by BDP Quadrangle and The One, a skyscraper expected to be the tallest in Canada, has been designed by Foster and Partners. This agreement will provide more opportunities for our world leading architects to export top quality British architecture abroad.
To register, architects should visit this page. Read more here.
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UK-CanadaTrade and Investment Factsheet
Date of release: 2 May 2025; Date of next planned release: 19 June 2025
Periodically, we present our members with a UK-Canada Trade and Investment Factsheets, generated by the UK’s Department for Business and Trade.
Total trade in goods and services (exports plus imports) between the UK and Canada was £27.6 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2024, an increase of 9.6% or £2.4 billion in current prices from the four quarters to the end of Q42023. Of this £27.6 billion:
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Total UK exports to Canada amounted to £16.9 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2024 (an increase of 5.0% or £805 million in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023);
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Total UK imports from Canada amounted to £10.6 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2024 (an increase of 17.7% or £1.6 billion in current prices, compared to the four quarters to the end of Q4 2023).
Canada was the UK’s 17th largest trading partner in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2024 accounting for 1.5% of total UK trade.
In 2023, the outward stock of foreign direct investment (FDI) from the UK in Canada was £37.8 billion accounting for 2.0% of the total UK outward FDI stock.
In 2023, the inward stock of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the UK from Canada was £30.2 billion accounting for 1.5% of the total UK inward FDI stock.
Read more here.
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Canadian Chamber of Commerce Launches Safer Businesses Council to protect jobs, communities and commerce
Bringing together a diverse group of businesses from across sectors — including major retailers, restaurants, banks and more — the Safer Businesses Council offers a unified forward-looking, action-oriented forum to develop and advocate for smart, effective policy solutions to keep Canadian communities safe and businesses thriving.
This is a national, business-led coalition committed to addressing rising safety concerns and protecting the future of municipal economies across Canada. Read more...
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Canadian Chamber of Commerce B7 Summit
The Business 7 (B7) is the most significant and recognized of the G7 Engagement Groups, representing the interests of the business community across G7 nations. It plays a critical role in developing actionable policy proposals for G7 leaders, ensuring business perspectives drive economic policymaking.
This year, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce will lead the B7 presidency, aligning with Canada’s G7 presidency, to shape discussions on economic security, resilience and innovation.
The B7 Summit convenes 600+ senior business leaders, policymakers, government officials and industry experts from G7 nations to discuss global economic challenges and advance policy solutions that drive economic growth and stability. On Friday May 16th, Rain Newton-Smith, CEO of CBI will join the session B7 Leader Insights: Italy, France, U.K, and Germany. More info here.
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Opportunities for UK companies!
An amazing opportunity for UK Film Producers to progress their film projects through brokered meetings with international film executives and potential co-production partners. Ontario Creates will host the International Financing Forum’s (IFF) 20th edition (7-8 Sept 2025) during the 50th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival (4-14 Sept 2025).
Details on eligibility and how to apply here.
Deadline for Canadian and International producers: June 2, 2025 at 5:00PM EST
Event Dates: Sunday, September 7, 2025 and Monday, September 8, 2025
Attention UK suppliers in the sports, major events, event management, fan experience, fan engagement space! The City of Toronto has issued a Negotiated Request for Proposals (nRFP) for Provision of Event Management Services for the FIFA Fan Festival 2026 in Toronto. More info here.
Issue Date: May 2, 2025
Submission Deadline: June 2, 2025 at 12:00pm EST
Registrations are now open for Web Summit Vancouver
The City of Toronto is organizing an in-person delegation to Web Summit Vancouver, from May 27 to 30. Web Summit Vancouver is expected to bring together over 15,000 global attendees, including technology founders, start-ups, investors, media and policymakers. To support Toronto’s innovation ecosystem, the City has secured a limited number of complimentary tickets for Toronto’s innovation community, startups, scaleups and investors. Tickets will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested parties must complete the intake form by May 9. Register today.
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UK Trade Deals
UK-US Trade Deal
Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Trump announced a new UK-US trade deal Thursday, that unravelled some of Donald Trumps Tariffs but left the UK still facing 10% tariffs on a wide range of its exports to the USA. The UK negotiated a reduction in tariffs on steel, aluminium, and cars subject to quotas, and in exchange agreed to open up to US exports of beef, ethanol and other goods. The deal is an improvement on the restrictions imposed by President Trump in April and leaves the UK in a better position than many other countries, but leaves a worse outlook for UK exporters than under Biden, particularly small and medium sized businesses that have not been offered explicit carve-out agreements.
The deal also holds out hope for the pharmaceutical industry, though details are especially thin in this area. There is a dim ray of hope for US farmers who, having been badly hit by some of Trump’s other moves on the economy, will now have easier access to some small areas of the UK market. There was no mention in the announcement of the President’s threat to impose 100% tariffs on foreign produced films, a move that would decimate the UK film industry. Overall, it leaves in place the idea that Donald Trump can arbitrarily take an axe to global trade agreements and that remains a danger to us all.
UK – India Trade Deal
After three years of negotiations that started under the UK’s Conservative Government, Prime Ministers Keir Starmer and Narendra Modi announced a new trade deal between the two countries that should lead to a closer trading relationship at a time when global trade is under extraordinary threat.
The UK government has published an outline of the deal (the details are still to be finalised) which can be accessed here.
The upside from the UK’s perspective comes from
- the immediate reduction in certain Indian tariffs (eg UK whisky/ whiskey and gin exports currently attract 150% tariffs that will reduce to 75% and eventually to 40%);
- greater access to Indian government procurement contracts;
- quicker and simpler importation processes;
- greater access to the world’s 5th largest economy, whose growth trajectory is much steeper than the UK’s.
Much of the reaction to the announcement in the UK has been focused on the Double Contributions Convention, a tax rule that allows employees moving between India and the UK, and their employers, to pay social security contributions in one country at a time eg only in India. This aspect of the deal is particularly controversial since the Labour Government increased social security contributions in its last budget, increases that Indian employees working in the UK will not have to pay.
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Member and Forum Updates
Navigating Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation: Key Guidelines for Sending Commercial Electronic Messages
By Fiona Brown, Partner, Aird & Berlis LLP
Businesses frequently rely on electronic communication to engage with customers and clients. However, it's crucial to navigate these waters carefully, especially in Canada, where Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (“CASL”) sets strict guidelines for sending commercial electronic messages. This article provides an overview of what you need to know to stay compliant. Read more..
The Trade War and Employment Law
By Fiona Brown, Partner, Aird & Berlis LLP
With the recent US trade war Ontario employers need to navigate employment standards, collective agreements and termination obligations more critically now than ever. Employers must carefully evaluate their rights and responsibilities to ensure compliance with labour laws and avoid costly legal missteps which could compound existing economic struggles.
With that in mind, this article provides key employment law considerations for Ontario businesses as they respond to the evolving trade war. From temporary layoffs to workforce management strategies, understanding these legal principles and corresponding best practices will be crucial to managing workforce challenges effectively while avoiding pitfalls and staying within the bounds of employment law. Read more...
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Virgin Airlines
Sir Richard Branson leading a team of Virgin Airlines employees on to the stage at the Globe and Mail Conference Centre in Toronto. After zip-lining across Niagara Falls in the afternoon, Sir Richard was in Toronto last night to celebrate the return of flights from London Heathrow to Toronto Pearson. Travellers now have more services and more choices when connecting the UK and Canada. Could not be happening at a better time for our two nations.
Many thanks to Simon Hawkins for the invitation to celebrate this great new option and I wish the whole team the best of luck in this endeavour. Congratulations to Teju Aremu for organising such a wonderful guest list. Many thanks also to Cathy Stapells and Ritushri Dhankher of VisitBritain.
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Welcome new BCCTC members!
Parth Davé, CCLP
Founder
NexaFlux
About NexaFlux - NexaFlux delivers data-driven, customized supply chain solutions that cut costs, boost efficiency, and solve complex challenges. With 10+ years of cross-industry expertise, we turn insights into action - helping businesses optimize logistics, enhance delivery, and achieve long-term operational success through smart, strategic decision-making.
Website - Home - NexaFlux
Phone: +1 (204) 952-8814
Email: pdave@nexafluxinc.com
LinkedIn: View My Profile
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British community in Canada
On May 27th we invite you to join the RCS Toronto Branch for an extraordinary moment in history. For the first time since 1977, The King, accompanied by The Queen, will attend the State Opening of Parliament in Ottawa, come join fellow members, friends, and supporters to watch the live broadcast of the King's Speech, celebrate our shared Commonwealth values, and connect over conversation. Additional info here.
On May 30, the Crown Society of Canada will host a Celebration of Service to the Crown in honour of the former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell. Reserve your tickets here.
We also invite you to join the International Churchill Society Canada for their 27th Annual Joint Dinner on Wednesday, June 4th, 2025. Featuring Speaker: Katherine Carter, author of Churchill’s Citadel: Chartwell & the Gatherings Before the Storm. More info here.
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The Honourable Company of Freemen of the City of London of North America invited BCCTC members to an exclusive reception with the 696th Lord Mayor of the City of London Alderman Alastair King DL.
Guests heard directly from the Lord Mayor on his Growth Unleashed theme, highlighting innovation, sustainable finance, and the importance of strengthening global partnerships. The evening also featured an engaging Q&A session, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with the Lord Mayor personally.
A central focus of the evening was the enduring trade connections and relationship between Canada and the UK, and the shared ambition to drive inclusive, forward-looking economic growth.
The British Consul General, Fouzia Younis also delivered a thoughtful address, reflecting on the special relationship between our two countries, shaped by shared Commonwealth and cultural ties.
Please save the date for the 43rd annual Oxford University vs Cambridge University Alumni Cricket Match on Sunday September 14th, 2025 played at noon at Upper Canada College in Toronto.
For those interested in playing more cricket - our spinoff team, the Nightwatchmen CC, will be playing 8 friendly cricket matches this summer. If you would like to join for these (one off or for the whole season) please send us an email to: idalia@bcctc.ca
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BCCTC Upcoming Events
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May 14: “80 Faces of Freedom” Exhibition, part of the 80 Years of Freedom Tribute, hosted by Holland House Canada, more info here
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May 15: NetworkTO, a City of Toronto exclusive networking reception to connect with leading tech companies, investors & government officials. Register here.
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May 22: Reigniting the Canada-EU Business Space
- May 22: European Networking Event - Host: Polish Chamber
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May 30: Crown Society of Canada - Celebration of Service to the Crown in honour of the former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, more info here.
- June 10: International Trade Agreements with British Chambers of Commerce in Latin America and the Caribbean. Online.
- June 10: 2025 UK-Latin America Tech Forum with Canning House, London, UK.
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June 12: Young Professionals at Fjällräven, hosted by the Swedish Chamber, more info here
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June 4: International Churchill Society Canada 27th Annual Joint Dinner. Featuring Speaker: Katherine Carter, author of Churchill’s Citadel: Chartwell & the Gatherings Before the Storm. More info here.
- Sept 9: Nordic Consular Cup Golf Tournament
- Sept 14: 43rd annual Oxford University vs Cambridge University Alumni Cricket Match
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European Networking Event
Hosted by Canada-Poland Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
Join us at this great opportunity to network with other business professionals based in Toronto and connect with other Chamber members.
Participating Partners: British Canadian Chamber of Trade and Commerce, the Canada Finland Chamber of Commerce, the Holland House Canada, the Irish Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Canada Poland Chamber of Commerce, the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Canada, the Swedish Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Swiss Chamber of Commerce in Ontario and the Belgian Canadian Business Chamber.
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EUCCAN
With nearly 8 years since the provisional application of the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), we look back on its mission to eliminate or reduce barriers. What have we learned and what successes has it brought?
Join EUCCAN's 2 panels on May 22nd as they discuss the value of Building Resilient Supply Chains and explore New Areas of Strategic EU-Canada Collaboration.
Thursday, May 22 · 12:15 - 5pm EDT
Ontario Investment and Trade Centre
250 Yonge Street Toronto, ON M5B 2L7 Canada
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Recent initiatives from our members and network
Canning House Mexico-UK Summit
Both Mexico and the UK are major economic powers on the world stage and key geopolitical actors. The Mexico-UK Summit held in Mexico City on April 9 sought to understand the situations of both countries, and identify opportunities to expand their future bilateral relationship. Amid the shifting global landscape Mexico and the United Kingdom —with over 200 years of diplomatic relations and shared membership in the G20, the United Nations, and the OECD—are poised to strengthen their partnership to drive sustainable development and build forward-looking economies.
Here were the 5 key takeaways from the event:
- The two countries already have a healthy relationship, but there is room to expand!
- Both need to adapt to the new world order President Trump’s policies are creating
- Mexico is exposed to climate change, but the UK has the expertise to help the economy adapt
- For British business, Mexico is uniquely positioned to act as a manufacturing hub and a gateway to US and Latin American markets
- Mexico is primed for an expansion in technological and financial services
"Underpinning our diplomatic engagement, it is essential to foster the open exchange of ideas between business, government and academia. I am therefore delighted to be able to support Canning House in their mission to deepen this valuable dialogue between our two countries."
H.E. Susannah Goshko, CMG
His Majesty's Ambassador to Mexico
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