VANCOUVER, BC (April 7, 2026) – The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) today released its latest economic impact study, Rooted in BC: Economic Impact of Forestry. The report uses the latest Statistics Canada data up to December 2024 to provide a localized look at the sector’s vital role across all eight of BC’s economic regions.
Despite significant global trade volatility and shifting land-use priorities, the findings underscore that the forest sector remains an indispensable pillar of the provincial economy. From sustaining high-wage jobs to funding the essential public services British Columbians rely on, the industry’s footprint remains significant.
By The Numbers
- Total Investment: $14.4 Billion invested in BC operations (2015-2024)
- Employment: 95,000 jobs (direct, indirect, and induced)
- Government Revenue: $3.4 Billion to support healthcare, education and infrastructure
- Manufacturing: Forestry represents 1 in 5 BC manufacturing jobs
- Exports: 21% of BC’s merchandise exports
Why This Matters
The study highlights that forestry isn’t just a heritage industry; it is a modern economic engine. By fostering Indigenous participation and supporting families in every corner of the province, a healthy forest sector is critical to the fiscal health and future prosperity of British Columbia.
Download the Reports
- Executive Summary: Rooted in BC: Economic Impact of Forestry
- Full Technical Report: Detailed 2024 Economic Data
- Previous Study (2024): Contributing to a Better BC: Economic Impact Study
Media Contact
Travis Joern
Director of Communications & Events
BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI)
778-846-3465