QUESTION PERIOD — International Trade
Trade Tariffs
October 27, 2026
Government leader, forestry is the backbone of many communities in British Columbia. This month, the United States finalized its latest review of duties on Canadian softwood lumber. Duties and tariffs came down from an average of 45% to 35%, but, for British Columbian producers, a 35% charge is hardly a relief. The industry says that the charges remain unjust as this dispute drags on.
Leader, the government has announced well over $1 billion in support, but there is still no agreement. What has that support achieved for B.C. workers, and when will the government deliver the one thing these communities have been asking for, which is a lasting softwood lumber deal?
Senator Martin, you certainly know that in order to have a deal, it takes two to tango. At this moment, the Canadian government has made it quite clear that we are ready to resume discussions whenever our United States partner will take us seriously and will be able to make a deal.
The Prime Minister rightfully said that, instead of having a rapid deal, we prefer to have a good deal for Canadians, Canadian enterprises and Canadian communities as a whole. If it’s with the next administration, so be it. We are dealing with a partner that is not willing to sit and discuss.
With the previous Harper government, it was a priority. This is a long-standing dispute, and 35% is very crippling. The Prime Minister says that talks with Washington are gaining momentum, but producers and mill workers have heard that before. It’s a very serious issue in B.C.
Will the government finally provide B.C. workers with a firm date for when this dispute will be resolved? We have been waiting for years.
The situation is very serious for all Canadians, and you are well aware that the United States has made a drastic shift in their relationship with allies and economic partners such as Canada. The Government of Canada is willing to negotiate in good faith with the United States in order to have a win-win agreement between the United States and Canada. In the meantime, the government is taking action to protect all enterprises in Canada and the Canadian economy as a whole.
