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COFI issues statement on federal support for Canada’s softwood lumber industry

The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) welcomes today’s announcement by the Prime Minister — made here in British Columbia — outlining new federal measures to support Canada’s softwood lumber industry. While securing a long-term agreement to resolve the ongoing trade dispute must remain a top national priority, these supports provide critical relief during an exceptionally challenging time.

“This support comes at a critical moment for forestry workers, communities, and companies across the country,” said Kim Haakstad, president and CEO of COFI. “Initiatives aimed at supporting workers, fostering innovation, enhancing liquidity, and promoting export development through organizations like Canada Wood are important steps toward stabilizing the sector and supporting government efforts to build more homes for Canadians. These investments also lay the foundation for long-term competitiveness.
“It’s significant that this announcement was made in British Columbia — home to Canada’s largest forest industry — where compounding pressures have been particularly acute.”

British Columbia is home to many world-leading forest products companies, and some of the hardest-hit communities, where the combined impact of trade barriers, rising costs, and reduced harvest levels has made this one of the most difficult periods for the industry in decades.

COFI looks forward to working with the federal government as the details of these programs are developed. With coordinated action, we can build a more competitive, innovative, and resilient forest sector that supports jobs, communities, and climate goals across Canada.