BC Minister of Forest “immensely disappointed” with the U.S. increasing softwood lumber duties
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PRINCE GEORGE— “I am immensely disappointed with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s decision to increase unfair and unwarranted softwood lumber duties,” says B.C. Minister of Forests, Bruce Ralston in reaction to the U.S. moving ahead with their decision that was first tabled in February 2024. Minister Ralston adds that this will hurt not just forestry workers but all British Columbians.
Softwood lumber duty increases range from around 14 per cent to eight per cent. The Ministry of Forests says “for most companies, their new rate will be 14.54%, though some companies will have rates that are slightly higher or lower.”
“The many hardworking people in B.C.’s forest industry have experienced years of unfair American duties. In addition to hurting forestry communities in B.C. and across Canada, these unjustified duties are increasing the cost of building homes in the U.S., making life harder for people south of the border,” argues Minister Ralston.
Ralston says that Premier David Eby has spoken directly with the U.S. ambassador with the Provinces stance being that: “The only solution is an end to unfair softwood lumber duties.”
