Statement from New Brunswick Lumber Producers Regarding Countervailing Duties on Exports of Lumber to the United States

25 April 2017 – For Immediate Release

FREDERICTON, N.B. – The announcement of a 19.88% countervailing duty (CVD) by the US Department of Commerce (US DOC) for NB softwood lumber producers is very tough news – not only for our mills but for the rural communities where we live and work.

The assessment of a 3.02% duty for J.D. Irving, Limited we believe proves the case for all New Brunswick softwood lumber producers.

We want Ottawa to start negotiations immediately. Our mills and communities cannot afford prolonged delays. Over 4100 direct and indirect jobs in rural New Brunswick depend on these sawmills and we are critical to the 20,000+ jobs in the entire NB forest sector.

We are calling on a unified approach by all federal and provincial elected officials to support our mill communities and stand up for the historic Maritime exclusion which has existed for over 35 years. We need a united Maritime voice.

New Brunswick Lumber Producers is a coalition of 11 companies that represent 95% of the lumber produced in New Brunswick.

CONTACT:
Mike Legere
506-452-6939