Why is softwood lumber not a priority at U.S. trade talks?

B.C. continues to feel the impact of U.S. tariffs in the forest industry. This month, Interfor an-nounced they would shut down the mill indefinitely in Grand Forks joining an unfortunate list of over 11 mills that have closed throughout B.C. since 2023.

The issues for forestry are due to a decade of waiting for a softwood lumber deal from the Liberal government. Even now, as mills close, getting forestry the attention it deserves in trade talks is a challenge.

I have raised this issue repeatedly in the House of Commons. I wrote to the Government House Leader in October, requesting an emergency debate on Canada’s lumber industry along with other sectors facing similar challenges. Unfortunately, the government declined this reques

See Full Page