Plans by the American government to prolong tariffs that make softwood lumber from B.C. more expensive have drawn criticism. In late January, the U.S. Department of Commerce said that the U.S. plans to extend existing tariffs. …This so-called softwood lumber dispute has dragged on-and-off for nearly 25 years and contributed to the decline of the provincial industry and people in communities who rely on forestry. Sawmills were the largest manufacturing industry in B.C. in 2020, generating 12 per cent of all provincial revenues from manufactured goods, down from 16 per cent in 2006. …The American decision to extend tariffs is not yet final, but a trio of provincial ministers have condemned it in a joined statement. Forest Minister Bruce Ralston, Jobs Minister Brenda Bailey and Trade Minister Jagrup Brar said these tarrifs are making lumber and thereby housing more expensive, hurting people on both sides of the border during a time of inflation.