Economy

Sinclar blames tariffs and provincial policy on production curtailments

Oct 23, 2025 | 11:26 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — Devastating news for the forestry sector in our region.

The Sinclar Group has announced it will reduce output at three lumber operations including Apollo Forest Products in Fort St James, Nechako Lumber in Vanderhoof, and Lakeland Mill in Prince George effective on Monday, October 27.

Each facility will reduce output by about 40 per cent which the company says is the equivalent of closing one full mill. Approximately 350 jobs will be affected.

The company attributes its decision to a number of external pressures – from what it calls an unsustainable provincial policy landscape and persistent uncertainty around fibre supply to deepening economic challenges, all made worse by punitive duties and additional tariffs on Canadian Lumber by the United States.

“The decision to curtail operations deeply affects our employees, their families, and the communities we serve,” said Sinclar President Greg Stewart. “The challenges facing the forest industry in British Columbia are significant and compounding. We must take action to sustain our operations.”

Stewart stressed the urgency for collective action from the provincial government, federal government, First Nation titleholders, industry partners, and fellow forestry companies to address the systemic issues threatening the sector.