Min. Ravi Parmar warns of “very difficult” times for forestry as U.S. softwood lumber duties bite

Min. Parmar says British Columbia’s forestry sector is under intense pressure from steep U.S. softwood lumber duties and tariffs climb to around 35% in base duties plus an additional 10% tariff, pushing total rates close to 45%, driving up housing costs and threatening jobs. He highlights ongoing efforts to push for a deal with President Donald Trump, support workers, and diversify trade into markets like India, while also outlining provincial measures to keep mills operating and strengthen domestic processing.