Dear Prime Minister Carney:
The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce represents over 800 businesses and their 20,000+ employees. I am writing to express our deepening concern about the mounting challenges facing our forest sector, driven by escalating trade tensions with the United States.
The forest sector is a cornerstone of Northwestern Ontario’s economy. It sustains thousands of direct and indirect jobs and plays a vital role in supporting local infrastructure, energy generation, transportation networks, and community well-being.
Since the expiration of the Softwood Lumber Agreement in 2016, Canadian lumber producers have been burdened by unfair and punitive U.S. duties. These duties—now exceeding $10 billion CAD—have severely impacted investment, innovation, and the long-term sustainability of the sector.
The implementation of additional U.S. tariffs under Section 232 further threatens our access to U.S. markets. The consequences will be immediate and far-reaching, affecting families, First Nations, and municipalities throughout Northwestern Ontario.
We appreciate the measures announced in August 2025 to support the transformation and competitiveness of the softwood lumber industry. The Chamber is eager to assist with the promotion of these financing programs to ensure that impacted operations in our community and region can obtain the support they so desperately need.
We urge your government to make resolving the softwood lumber dispute and S.232 tariffs on lumber an urgent priority equal to steel, aluminum and energy.
The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce stands ready to collaborate with your government and industry partners to safeguard jobs, attract investment, and ensure long-term prosperity for our region.