B.C. Forest Industry Generated Significant Economic Activity

The industry also contributes to the well-being of communities wherever it is located.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The new study published by the B.C. Council of Forest Industries (COFI) highlights the important role played by the province’s forest industry. Apart from thousands of jobs, the industry also generates significant economic activity across all regions of the province.

According to COFI, the provincial forest sector supported more than 100,000 jobs in 2019. It generated over $13 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) and approximately $8.5 billion in wages, salaries and other benefits. The industry also contributes to the well-being of communities wherever it is located.

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The study noted that forest sector companies invested approximately $14 billion in their B.C. operations during the period from 2009 to 2019. The B.C. forestry industry represents 1 in 25 of all of the jobs in the entire province. It accounts for 14% jobs in the Cariboo, 7% of jobs in the North east and Kootenays. The sector directly employs more than 5,300 indigenous people.

Susan Yurkovich, president and CEO, COFI noted that B.C.’s forest products sector is an important part of the provincial economy. It helps individuals as well as small businesses to pay their bills and supports good quality life for B.C.’s citizens, she added.

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