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- calendar_today November 6, 2026
Labour Force Survey Shows Ontario's October Job Gains
British Columbia recorded a significant gain in employment in October 2026, adding 12,300 jobs according to Statistics Canada's latest Labour Force Survey. This positive change follows a loss of 20,200 jobs in September and marks a notable contrast to the national labour market, which experienced net job losses over the same period.
Increase Concentrated in Part-Time Positions
The employment growth in British Columbia was driven entirely by part-time positions. The province added 13,900 part-time jobs during October, while losing 1,700 full-time jobs. This division between part-time and full-time job changes highlights the complexities of the province's current labour market dynamics.
B.C. Unemployment Rate Sees Slight Decline
The overall unemployment rate in British Columbia decreased by 0.1 percentage points in October, falling to 6.3 percent from September's figure. This drop stood in contrast to the national rate, which increased 0.2 points to 6.7 percent amid a Canada-wide loss of 4,700 jobs.
Sectoral Breakdown: Gains and Losses
Several sectors saw growth in British Columbia during October. The information, culture and recreation sector added 7,600 jobs, while wholesale and retail trade expanded by 6,400 jobs. Construction also recorded an increase of 3,700 jobs. However, these gains were partially offset by notable losses in other areas: transportation and warehousing shed 2,700 jobs, public administration lost 2,900 positions, and professional, scientific and technical services decreased by 3,900 jobs.
Provincial Response and Context
Premier-designate Lorne Doerkson addressed the division between part-time and full-time employment in a statement, emphasizing the government's intent to focus on private sector growth. "After years of economic malaise in British Columbia, the province has a lot of ground to make up," Doerkson stated. He added that rebuilding confidence in the province's economy will take time.
Long-Term Perspective and Impact on Resource Sectors
Kevin Milligan, director of the Vancouver School of Economics at the University of British Columbia, cautioned that monthly changes in employment figures can be volatile and should be considered alongside longer-term trends. He noted that job growth over the last year has been relatively flat across all demographics in British Columbia. Milligan also pointed out ongoing challenges faced by trade-exposed sectors such as forestry and mining, particularly as the trade war with the United States continues. While these sectors represent a small portion of the overall workforce, Milligan said the impact on resource-dependent communities within the province remains significant.
Source: cbc.ca.
