BC forest industry groups welcome pause on Canada-U.S. tariffs

The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) and the BC Lumber Trade Council (BCLTC) have issued a joint statement regarding ongoing Canada-U.S. trade negotiations. Both organizations welcomed the decision to pause the implementation of Section 338 tariffs while discussions continue.

While describing the pause as an encouraging sign of progress, the groups noted that the specific implications for the Canadian forest sector remain unclear. They emphasized that the Section 232 tariff on lumber and the long-standing softwood lumber dispute remain central to the negotiations.

The organizations stated that reducing trade barriers on forest products could benefit workers and businesses in both nations, lower costs for American consumers, and potentially improve housing affordability.