B.C.’s forest industry is looking to strengthen global partnerships as the province’s largest-ever forestry trade mission heads to Japan and South Korea.

“Forestry has always been a cornerstone of British Columbia’s economy, and today, it’s our gateway to new global opportunities,” said Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests.

“B.C. is leading this mission at a time when our forestry sector is under attack by Donald J. Trump’s unfair and unjustified tariffs. We’re strengthening B.C.’s forestry sector by opening new markets, forging powerful partnerships and showing the world that B.C. produces the highest quality, most sustainably managed wood products on the planet. My message is clear: We will not be defined by American protectionism.”

Led by Parmar, the delegation includes First Nations representatives, industry leaders, and government officials - all working to grow new markets for B.C. wood products in Asia.

Parmar says the mission comes at a time when B.C.’s forestry sector faces challenges from American tariffs, making market diversification more important than ever.

The seven-day mission begins November 8th and will include visits to major manufacturers and government agencies in both countries.

Officials say expanding trade relationships helps make the sector more resilient to global market swings and ensures continued prosperity for forest-dependent communities.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.