Western Forest Products is reducing lumber production in its British Columbia sawmills by approximately 30 million board feet during the period from October to December 2024.
The company estimates that for the full year of 2024, total lumber production will be reduced by approximately 90 million board feet, which includes approximately 30 million board feet in the third quarter of 2024. The total estimated reduction for 2024 equates to approximately 10% of the company’s annual lumber capacity.
Western Forest Products said the temporary curtailments are due to a combination of market challenges, including weaker lumber demand, higher U.S. softwood lumber duty rates and factors relating to the British Columbia operating environment creating a lack of available economic log supply at certain sawmills.
“We continue to face more challenging lumber markets and operating conditions and are taking proactive steps to match production to market demand,” Western Forest Products president and CEO Steven Hofer said. “With the potential for combined U.S. 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.”
Western Forest Products said it will continue to monitor market conditions and intends to adjust its operations consistent with market demand.
