Canfor announces closure of another B.C. mill, about 300 jobs affected

Forestry company Canfor has announced it will permanently close its Northwood pulp mill in Prince George, a decision that is expected to affect approximately 300 employees.

According to a company news release, the closure is driven by ongoing financial losses, a shortage of economically viable fibre supply, and continued weakness in global pulp markets. Canfor said an oversupply of pulp and a significant decline in market prices have created sustained challenges for the sector.

The company said the Northwood pulp mill will cease operations by the end of the fourth quarter of 2026. The closure is expected to reduce Canfor's annual pulp production capacity by approximately 300,000 tonnes.

B.C. Forests Minister Ravi Parmar said the provincial government will work with affected employees and their union to provide support during the transition. Meanwhile, the B.C. Council of Forest Industries is urging the provincial government to take immediate steps to stabilize the forestry sector and address the challenges facing the industry.