For immediate release:

Vancouver, BC | November 12, 2026

TLA Statement on Millar Western’s Indefinite Curtailment of Quesnel River Pulp Mill

The Truck Loggers Association (TLA) is deeply disappointed by the announcement that Millar Western will indefinitely curtail operations at its Quesnel River Pulp mill. This is another significant setback for B.C.’s forest sector and a serious blow to the workers, businesses and communities that depend on a viable forest industry.

The decision, which affects approximately 90 employees, is another stark reminder of the mounting pressures facing B.C.’s forestry supply chain. The consequences extend well beyond the mill itself, affecting independent logging contractors, fibre suppliers, transportation companies, local businesses and families throughout the Cariboo region.

“Every time another mill closes or curtails operations, the impact ripples throughout the entire forestry supply chain. Logging contractors and the businesses that harvest, transport and supply fibre lose important customers and markets. These are good-paying jobs and established businesses that support communities and contribute significantly to B.C.’s economy,” said Peter Lister, Executive Director of the TLA.

Millar Western has cited challenging market conditions and uncertainty surrounding the availability of economically viable fibre as factors behind its decision. These are challenges the industry has been raising for years, including declining access to economic fibre, rising operating costs, regulatory uncertainty and an increasingly difficult business environment.

“How many more mills, jobs and communities must we lose before meaningful action is taken? B.C. cannot continue to lose manufacturing capacity and expect its forest sector to remain viable. We need governments to recognize the urgency of this situation and work with industry to address the barriers that are making it increasingly difficult to operate in this province,” said Bob Marquis, President of the TLA.

While global market conditions are beyond provincial control, government has a responsibility to address the challenges within its jurisdiction. Improving access to economically viable fibre, reducing unnecessary regulatory and permitting barriers, and creating a more competitive operating environment must be immediate priorities.

The TLA continues to call on provincial and federal governments to work collaboratively with industry, First Nations and communities to develop and implement a comprehensive action plan to stabilize B.C.’s forest sector, protect existing jobs and manufacturing capacity, and restore confidence in the future of forestry in this province.

The possibility of a future restart at Quesnel River Pulp is important, and every effort should be made to preserve that opportunity. However, the immediate priority must be supporting affected workers, contractors and businesses while addressing the underlying challenges that threaten the long-term viability of the industry.

Our thoughts are with the affected employees, their families, independent contractors, local businesses and the entire Quesnel community as they face another period of uncertainty.