Interfor has halted operations at its Grand Forks sawmill in British Columbia \u201cindefinitely,\u201d though local officials emphasized the shutdown is not a permanent closure.<\/p>\n
Grand Forks Mayor Everett Baker confirmed during the Oct. 6 city council meeting that the decision was driven by difficult market conditions and the latest increase in U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumber exports, which now stand at 45 percent.<\/p>\n
\u201cI have spoken to mill management, and I\u2019ve been assured this is not a permanent closure,\u201d Baker said. \u201cThis is strictly a temporary shutdown, though it includes contractors and mill workers.\u201d<\/p>\n
The closure has raised concerns about its impact on local employment and the regional economy. Baker said city officials, together with provincial and federal representatives, are working to support affected employees and businesses.<\/p>\n
Baker noted that the city is coordinating with Boundary Similkameen MLA Donegal Wilson, MP Helena Konanz, and B.C. Premier David Eby\u2019s office, among others. The mayor also reached out to the province\u2019s economic development team to provide transition support for workers.<\/p>\n
Despite the setback, Baker said he remains committed to supporting the regional forest sector and maintaining cooperation with Interfor management.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"