British Columbia Premier David Eby is urging the Canadian government to safeguard forestry workers amid fresh tariffs imposed by the U.S. president that threaten to exacerbate the challenges facing the industry. Recently, the U.S. introduced a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian lumber in addition to an existing 35 per cent tariff. Furthermore, a 25 per cent tariff was imposed on certain Canadian wood products, including furniture, adding to the strain on the industry.
Communities like Grand Forks, B.C., are particularly hard hit by this development, with local mill operations already teetering on the edge. Interfor, a major lumber producer, had previously announced production cutbacks across its North American facilities, including in Grand Forks, but the indefinite closure of the mill was confirmed last week, affecting numerous workers like truck driver Doug Gailey.
Expressing shock at the closure, Gailey highlighted the uncertainty now facing the community. Interfor attributed the decision to the challenging market conditions and economic uncertainty, worsened by the impact of U.S. trade actions such as escalating softwood lumber duties.
During a news conference, Premier Eby demanded federal funding to support forestry workers during this “additional attack” on the industry. Despite Prime Minister Mark Carney’s pledge of $1.2 billion in support for the softwood lumber sector in August, the funds have not materialized, causing concern among industry representatives.
Eby emphasized the urgent need for assistance, stressing that the forest sector in Canada is facing a critical situation. He called for equal attention and support for B.C.’s forestry industry compared to other sectors in the country, pointing out that Canada faces higher lumber tariffs than Russia.
The impact of the tariffs is not limited to British Columbia, as New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt also appealed to the federal government for immediate action on softwood lumber tariffs due to the significant reliance on forest products in her province. The uncertain future of the forestry industry poses a threat to the livelihoods of workers, families, and entire communities that depend on this sector for their economic well-being.
In Grand Forks and other affected areas, the atmosphere is somber as residents grapple with the uncertainty surrounding their jobs and economic stability. Gailey emphasized the need for government intervention to support the community and help it weather the ongoing challenges in the forestry sector.