Ward Stamer

BC’s forestry critic says a newly-proposed U.S. tariff on Canadian wood products could force mill closures across the province, but he believes the Trump administration is leaving room to negotiate. …Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Ward Stamer said many mills are already struggling and a 50% tariff could push some over the edge. …Stamer said he believes the proposed rate is a negotiating tactic by Trump. …The MLA said the province also has a role to play, arguing the Ministry of Forests needs to change policies and regulations to improve access to timber for BC producers. …Stamer said he expects the closure to have ripple effects across the region, potentially affecting other wood manufacturers. He said Kruger’s pulp mill in Kamloops appears to be in a stronger position due to its fibre supply, but wildfire conditions are creating new concerns.