Diversifying and expanding B.C.’s forestry sector is top of mind as Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, leads industry representatives, First Nations, and other sector experts on a trade mission to Japan and South Korea.

Nine more forestry companies are being supported to modernize, innovate and diversify their product lines and fibre sources to make more high-value, made-in-B.C. products, and help protect and create jobs.

Rick Doman has been appointed to the Forestry Innovation Investment (FII) board as chair.

Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, has released the following statement on the annual meeting of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers (CCFM):

Amendments to B.C.’s lumber regulations will open the door for more wood products to be manufactured in the province, strengthening the forestry sector and creating more family-supporting jobs.

Value-added wood manufacturers are encouraged to join three new accelerator tables that will work to expand the sector in B.C.

Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests, and Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs Economic Development and Innovation, have released the following statement in response to Canfor’s announcement to restructure its BC operations:

Forestry workers and communities throughout the province will benefit from new funding for the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) to increase fibre supply aimed at keeping people working and local mills running, while also mitigating wildfire risks and reducing climate emissions.