Today, the US Department of Commerce has reviewed the softwood lumber duties, and the first step to help Surrey businesses that rely on the export of lumber to the US. Positive changes are on the way. Going forward, most BC companies will pay around 9% on shipments to the US, down from the current rate of 20.23%
“Still more needs to be done as even these duties are unfair for Surrey and Canadian businesses,” said Anita Huberman, CEO of the Surrey Board of Trade.
“Surrey is the home to many wood manufacturing companies that are significant employers, such as Teal Jones, S&R Sawmills, Pacific Lumber, Catalyst Paper, Key West and Riverside to name but a few. Workers and businesses are dependent on a healthy forest sector.”
“Harvesting of timber in British Columbia generates over 100,000 direct and indirect jobs, including thousands in Surrey. Well-managed and sustainable forestry will be around for as long as people use wood and paper products. It’s the ultimate renewable industry.”
The Surrey Board of Trade will continue to work with our Cascadia partners to bring change for the better for our softwood lumber industry.
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Anita Huberman, 604-634-0342, anita@businessinsurrey.com
