Bruce Ralston, B.C.’s Minister of Forests, has addressed Canfor Corporation’s decision to permanently close the Plateau sawmill in Vanderhoof and the Fort St. John sawmill, which will impact workers and communities across the province.
Bruce Ralston,
B.C.’s Minister of Forests“Our top priority is supporting the workers, families, and communities affected by Canfor’s decision,” said Ralston. He emphasized the government's commitment to assisting those impacted and creating new opportunities in the forestry sector.
Ralston also pointed to external pressures, such as rising U.S. softwood lumber duties, as contributing factors to the closures, adding that the province will continue to fight these "unfair" duties.
He reassured the public that B.C. is taking action to secure sustainable fibre supply and support the forest sector in the long term.
B.C.'s Forest Industry Supports Nearly 100,000 Jobs Despite Ongoing Challenges
British Columbia's forest industry continues to be a vital contributor to the provincial economy, supporting close to 100,000 jobs across the province. Of these, 48,725 are direct forestry jobs, with an additional 51,143 indirect and induced positions tied to the sector. The industry also contributes $9.1 billion in wages, salaries, and benefits, and generates $6.6 billion in government revenue.
Despite its significant economic impact, the sector has faced substantial challenges. Post-pandemic supply chain disruptions, transportation issues, global competition, and persistent mill curtailments driven by long-term fibre shortages have strained the industry's ability to meet demand. These hurdles have reshaped the market, affecting the supply of key forest products and forcing companies to adapt.
