British Columbia Premier David Eby has urged the Canadian government to safeguard forestry workers amidst new tariffs imposed by the U.S. president, posing a threat to an already struggling industry. The U.S. recently imposed an additional 10% tariff on Canadian lumber, on top of the existing 35% tariff, and introduced a 25% tariff on certain Canadian wood products like furniture. This development has dealt a severe blow to communities such as Grand Forks, B.C., where local mill operations were already on shaky ground.
In early September, Interfor, a major lumber producer, announced production cutbacks across its North American operations, including in Grand Forks. However, last week, the community received the news that the mill would be closed indefinitely, affecting numerous individuals like truck driver Doug Gailey.
Gailey expressed his shock at the sudden closure, highlighting the uncertainty faced by the community. Interfor’s Vice President of Corporate Communications and Government Relations, Svetlana Kayumova, cited persistent market challenges and economic uncertainty as reasons for the operational reductions and eventual shutdown in Grand Forks.
Premier Eby, in a news conference, demanded financial assistance from the federal government to support forestry workers during what he described as an “additional attack” on the industry. Despite Prime Minister Mark Carney’s promise of $1.2 billion in support for the softwood lumber sector in August, the funds have yet to materialize, as noted by B.C. Council of Forest Industries President Kim Haakstad.
Eby emphasized the urgency of the situation, pointing out that Canada faces higher lumber tariffs than Russia. He called for immediate action to protect the forest sector, echoing concerns about the lack of attention given to British Columbia’s forestry challenges compared to other provinces like Ontario and Quebec.
The impact of these tariffs extends beyond B.C., with New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt also urging the federal government to prioritize softwood lumber tariffs to safeguard workers in her province. Eby expressed fears that many forestry companies may not survive these challenges, jeopardizing the livelihoods of workers and the well-being of communities reliant on the forestry sector.
In Grand Forks, Gailey remarked on the subdued atmosphere as families grapple with the uncertainty surrounding their jobs. He stressed the need for government intervention to support the valley community through these trying times.