British Columbia has launched its largest forestry trade mission to Asia to expand the province’s lumber exports and strengthen global partnerships, according to the Government of British Columbia.
The seven-day mission begins Nov. 8 and includes visits to Japan and South Korea. It brings together representatives from the provincial forestry industry, First Nations, and other experts led by Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests.
The mission builds on recent international efforts, including the opening of the Forestry Innovation Investment office in London, England, aimed at expanding global markets for B.C. wood products. Market diversification has become a priority for the province as U.S. tariffs on softwood lumber continue to limit access to American markets.
Delegates will meet government officials such as the Japan Forestry Agency and South Korea’s Land and Housing Research Institute. They will also visit local manufacturers, including Mitsubishi Estate Wood Panel Plant, Xyence Pressure Treating Plant, and Younglim Headquarters. Participants include Rick Doman, chair of Forestry Innovation Investment, Makenzie Leine, deputy minister of forests, and Lenny Joe, CEO of the B.C. First Nations Forestry Council. Members of Alberta’s government will also join the mission.
Japan is B.C.’s second-largest lumber market by value, with forestry product exports totaling $887 million in 2024. South Korea imported B.C. forestry products worth $239 million in the same year.
