Western Forest Products Announces Plans to Reduce Production at Its BC Sawmills in Q4

On Monday, Western Forest Products (WFP) announced that it plans to reduce lumber production at its British Columbia sawmills by approximately 30 million board feet during the period from October to December.

For all of 2024, WFP estimates total lumber production will be reduced by approximately 90 million board feet, which includes approximately 30 million board feet in Q3. The total estimated lumber production reduction for 2024 equates to approximately 10% of WFP’s annual lumber capacity.

WFP says the temporary curtailments are due to a combination of market challenges including weaker lumber demand and higher US softwood lumber duty rates, and factors relating to the BC operating environment creating a lack of available economic log supply at certain sawmills.

In a statement, WFP President and CEO Steven Hofer said:

“We continue to face more challenging lumber markets and operating conditions and are taking proactive steps to match production to market demand. With the potential for the combined US softwood lumber duties rate to more than double in the second half of 2025, all levels of government need to be focused on creating a policy environment that supports the forestry industry and encourages domestic investment.”

WFP is one of the largest private sector employers on Vancouver Island, supporting 3,500 jobs in nearly 20 communities in BC. The company will continue to monitor market conditions and intends to adjust its operations consistent with market demand.