British Columbia will promote sustainable forestry, clean energy, and critical minerals during a trade mission to India led by Premier David Eby. The visit aims to attract investment, expand export markets, and support employment in resource industries, according to the Government of British Columbia.
The delegation will include Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth Ravi Kahlon and will meet with Indian government and business leaders in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chandigarh, and Bengaluru from Jan. 12 to 17, 2026. The discussions will focus on forestry products, renewable energy, and responsible mining projects.
India ranks 22nd among destinations for Canadian lumber exports, accounting for 12 thousand m3, or 0.1% of total export volume from January to September 2025, according to Lesprom Analytics. During the same period, India imported 1.89 million m3 of lumber worth $384 million at an average price of $203 per m3. Germany was India’s largest lumber supplier with 20% of imports, followed by the United States with 19%, Ecuador with 7%, and Russia with 6%.
The mission is part of the Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for BC and Canada plan, which seeks to double exports to non-U.S. markets within 10 years. The initiative builds on B.C.’s trade diversification strategy, supporting industries including forestry, life sciences, agriculture, ocean science, and technology.
British Columbia exported $1.3 billion in goods to India in 2024 and maintains trade and investment offices in Chandigarh, New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
Forestry Innovation Investment, B.C.’s forest products marketing agency, continues to promote provincial wood species in India under the Canadian Wood brand, supporting the province’s strategy to grow international demand for sustainable timber.
