BC Council of Forest Industries

Kim Haakstad, on behalf of the BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI), and the BC Lumber Trade Council (BCLTC) issued a statement on the Canada-U.S. trade talks: “COFI and BCLTC welcome the decision to pause the implementation of Section 338 tariffs while talks continue between Canada and the United States. While we await further details, the pause is an encouraging sign that discussions are progressing and that there is an opportunity to address the significant trade issues between our two countries. Although the pause is a positive step, the implications for Canada’s forest sector are not yet clear. Key issues, including the Section 232 tariff on lumber and the softwood lumber dispute, remain central to these discussions. We will review the details of any agreement and its implications for the full range of Canadian forest products. Lowering trade barriers on lumber and other forest products benefits workers, businesses and communities on both sides of the border. It also reduces costs for American consumers and creates an opportunity to improve housing affordability.” Contact media@bclumbertrade.com.