Vancouver, B.C. – Michael Armstrong, Vice President & Chief Forester of the BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI), issued the following statement today regarding the closure of B.C. ports:
“With the disruptions to operations at West Coast ports, the BC Council of Forest Industries urges all parties – employers, unions, and both provincial and federal governments – to urgently collaborate on a swift resolution.
“These ports are an essential channel for British Columbia’s forestry sector, connecting us to key US and Asian markets and playing an indispensable role in global supply chains. With over $11 billion in exports in 2023, forest products account for nearly one-quarter of the province’s merchandise exports. Each day of disruption compounds delays, impacts business continuity and the livelihoods of workers and communities that depend on forestry.”
Armstrong emphasized the importance of uninterrupted access to international markets: “Ensuring that B.C.’s exports reach customers promptly is essential for the health of the province’s economy. We urge swift action from all stakeholders to mitigate the far-reaching impacts a prolonged disruption could have on jobs, local economies, and our sector’s stability.”
COFI remains hopeful that a constructive resolution will soon allow for the efficient movement of goods and restore operations for the industries and consumers that rely on this vital trade infrastructure.
Key Facts:
- B.C. Forest Sector Exports: In 2023, B.C. exported $11 billion in forest products.
- Share of B.C. Exports: Forest products account for 24% of the province’s merchandise exports.
- Economic Contributions:
- The forest industry contributes $17.4 billion to B.C.’s GDP.
- It supports $9.1 billion in wages, salaries, and benefits.
- It generates $6.6 billion in government revenue, funding essential services such as health and education.
- Community Impact: 335 municipalities and Indigenous communities across B.C. actively participate in the forest industry, underscoring its foundational role in regional economies and livelihoods.
Sources:
BC Council of Forest Industries Economic Impact Study
British Columbia’s Forest Industry Supply Chain and Community Benefits Study
About the BC Council of Forest Industries
The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) represents the interests of British Columbia’s forest industry, advocating for policies that support sustainable forest management, economic prosperity, and the well-being of forest-dependent communities.