The most immediate and effective trade tool available to stabilize the market and protect the Canadian manufacturing ecosystem.
A Global Safeguard is a transparent, rules-based trade remedy designed to provide temporary stability to domestic industries facing an unforeseen surge in imports.
Immediate Stabilization: It acts as a circuit breaker, stabilizing the market while the situation is formally examined.
Evidence-Based: The measure allows the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) to conduct a rigorous inquiry into the impact of imports on Canadian producers.
Closing the Gap: It ensures that the cabinet, flooring, and furniture sectors receive the same market stability enjoyed by other CUSMA-protected wood products.
The shift for Canadian manufacturers has been from growth to survival. Without a safeguard, Canada risks the permanent loss of its value-added manufacturing capacity.
Job Losses: 3,000 jobs have already been lost in Quebec; 7,000 more are at risk by 2028.
Utilization Crisis: If current trends continue, plant utilization could fall below 50% by 2026 – the point where many facilities can no longer cover fixed costs.
Industry Impact: One CWPA member recently reported losing 150 jobs (30% of their workforce) in just 18 months.
This is about Canadian sovereignty. It is about ensuring Canada remains a country that manufactures and finishes products at home, rather than exporting raw lumber and importing high-value goods. By protecting these manufacturers, we secure the forestry value chain, protecting the primary customers for sawmill residuals and maintaining skilled jobs across every region of the country.
The Global Safeguard is the right tool, at the right time, to protect Canadian workers.
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