Domtar announced it will indefinitely idle its sawmill in Maniwaki, Quebec, beginning October 10.
The decision comes in response to difficult market conditions and rising U.S. softwood lumber duties, which now stand at more than 35 per cent.
The facility, acquired by Domtar through its 2023 purchase of Resolute Forest Products, had only recently resumed limited operations in June following a shutdown that began in December 2024. About 60 to 80 employees had been working since the restart, according to union and company figures.
Local officials and workers expressed deep concern over the renewed closure. Chantal Lamarche, warden of the MRC Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, described it as an “economic catastrophe” for the region, while Maniwaki Mayor Francine Fortin said the sawmill’s shutdown is “sad news” that threatens the local economy.
Union leaders stressed that both U.S. tariffs and Quebec’s forest management system are weighing heavily on the sector. Unifor Quebec director Daniel Cloutier said the industry is under “turbulent” pressure and urged federal and provincial governments to accelerate solutions.
Workers echoed these concerns, warning of limited employment alternatives in the region. “We’re a small town,” said one employee. “There’s not a lot of work where you can earn more than minimum wage.”
The Maniwaki sawmill supplies both North American and overseas markets. As the shutdown approaches, employees are expected to leave in stages, with minimal staff remaining for essential maintenance.
Domtar is a leading provider of fiber-based products including communication, specialty, and packaging papers, as well as market pulp. Following its integration with Resolute Forest Products in 2024, the company now operates under the Domtar name with an extensive North American network of mills and facilities. Headquartered in Fort Mill, South Carolina, Domtar serves customers in more than 50 countries.
