**B.C. Economy Adds Jobs, But Unemployment Rate Rises** British Columbia's economy saw an increase of 7,800 jobs in September, primarily in the hospitality, education, and arts and culture sectors, according to Statistics Canada. This marks the largest job gain since May, but it does not compensate for the 32,000 jobs lost in July and August. Ravi Kahlon, the province's minister of jobs and economic growth, stated, "B.C. leads Canada in private-sector job growth and is holding steady working to build an economy that can stand on its own two feet. Year over year, B.C. has seen an increase of 48,600 jobs." However, Gavin Dew, the Conservative critic for small business and innovation, expressed skepticism. He said, "This government keeps trying to claim B.C.’s economy is strong. But the numbers tell a very different story, and it’s even worse when you actually talk to small-business people." The hospitality sector experienced the most significant growth, adding 12,000 jobs in September. Education followed closely with nearly 11,000 new positions. In contrast, the wholesale and retail trade sectors lost nearly 17,000 jobs, the largest decline among all sectors. Kahlon noted the impact of U.S. tariffs, stating, "B.C. and Canada are facing serious challenges in the face of U.S. President Donald Trump’s attacks on our economy and sovereignty. Tariffs and economic uncertainty are large challenges for certain sectors and regions throughout the province." Despite the job gains, the unemployment rate in B.C. rose to 6.4 percent, matching the rate from May. This figure represents the highest unemployment rate since January 2022. The rate has steadily increased from a low of 4.2 percent in December 2022. Kahlon pointed out that B.C.'s unemployment rate remains below the national average of 7.1 percent and highlighted that the province boasts an average hourly wage of $37.94, the second highest in Canada. B.C.'s unemployment rate is lower than those in Alberta and Ontario but higher than in Quebec. Newfoundland and Labrador has the highest unemployment rate in the country at 10.6 percent. Unemployment rates vary significantly among age groups. Nearly 6 percent of core-age workers, defined as those between 25 and 54, were unemployed in September, nearly two percentage points higher than in January 2022. Youth unemployment remains particularly concerning, with 13.7 percent of British Columbians aged 15-24 unemployed, marking the second highest level since January 2022. Dew expressed concern, stating, "What continues to worry me is the lack of opportunities for young people."