CAQ proposes national forestry initiative and $144M investment

The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) has proposed a national forestry initiative and a $144 million investment to support the province's forest industry. Outgoing Premier Christine Fréchette announced the measures in La Tuque, aiming to adapt forest management to regional realities.

The proposal includes launching pilot projects to test new forestry methods, citing a successful collaboration in Mauricie between the Attikamekw community and Arbec as a model. The CAQ also intends to hold a ‘National Forest Workshop’ involving regional authorities, industry leaders, and First Nations to identify necessary reforms to the forestry regime.

These reforms seek to increase the role of regional players, strengthen partnerships with First Nations, and provide greater predictability for the industry. The $144 million investment is earmarked for modernizing factories, fostering innovation, and promoting Quebec wood construction. The goal is to increase the value of harvested timber and reduce industry dependence on the American market amid tariff concerns.