The province is introducing a fresh approach to assist the forestry industry, which has faced significant challenges due to the trade conflict with the United States.
This new 10-year strategy aims to safeguard current mills, workers, and communities while promoting diversification and enhancing competitiveness within the sector.
The initiative seeks to support an industry that has been heavily affected by ongoing softwood lumber tariffs and newly imposed duties from the U. S.
Associate Minister of Forestry Kevin Holland emphasizes that this plan also prepares the sector for future developments.
“We fully anticipate that we’re going to see change coming,” says Holland.
“We’re going to see things turn, and we want to make sure that the sector is well positioned for when that opportunity comes and that we’re ready to capitalize on those opportunities when it happens.”
The government roadmap includes measures aimed at increasing the use of wood produced at Ontario’s mills and attracting new investments into the industry.
Holland mentions that each identified action has specific goals they intend to reach over two, five, and ten years.
“These goals chart the industry’s path to long-term success in the emerging global forest economy,” says Holland.
“We will implement the roadmap with an all-of-government approach that reflects and reinforces forestry’s connections to industry.”
The province highlights previous investments made in this area.
This includes using more wood in public construction projects, supporting forest biomass initiatives, and providing increased funding for forest access roads.
“Since 2022, we have invested over $350 million across the sector, creating hundreds of new jobs and supporting businesses in every corner of the province,” says Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources.
The Ministry reports that Ontario exported approximately $8.3 billion in forest products in 2025.
Randy Thoms is a veteran news broadcaster with over 40 years’ experience. He is based in Fort Frances and covers stories across northwestern Ontario. Contact Randy at thoms. randy@radioabl. ca.
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