Minister flags concern over BC Ferries’ construction deal with Chinese shipyard

By Canadian Press on June 10, 2025.

British Columbia’s transport minister says he has raised concerns with BC Ferries about its decision to have a Chinese shipyard build four new ferries for its passenger fleet, amid an ongoing trade conflict between Canada and China.

Mike Farnworth says he’s worried about procuring services from “any country that is actively harming Canada’s economy” with tariffs and protectionism.

Farnworth’s remarks come hours after the announcement by BC Ferries CEO Nicolas Jimenez that China Merchants Industry Weihai Shipyards had won the contract.

Jimenez said he wasn’t worried about geopolitical tensions between Canada and China, adding his primary focus was getting the province a good deal.

Farnworth says in a statement that BC Ferries is an independent company, but he’s disappointed “more involvement from Canadian shipyards” wasn’t part of the contract.

The first vessel is expected to come into service in 2029 with the others following in six-month intervals.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 10, 2025.

Ashley Joannou, The Canadian Press