- Softwood lumber duties rose to 35% in August 2025, causing concern in the forestry sector as the potential for a 50% tariff looms.
- Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston stated he is willing to put U.S. alcohol back on shelves to help reach a deal, following the federal government’s lead.
- N.B. Premier Susan Holt expressed optimism in a statement, expecting tariff reductions and planning to weigh in once details are finalized.
- With hours before the extended tariff deadline, Holt went backcountry camping and was unavailable for an on-camera interview.
- Residents in Fredericton showed support for the federal negotiation team and the prime minister, while opposing Trump and his tariffs.
- The forestry sector is anxious as the potential of a deal or 50% tariffs looms, having already faced steep tariff hikes last year, including softwood lumber duties rising to 35% in August 2025.
- Derek Nighbor, president and CEO of the Forest Products Association of Canada, hopes any deal will include removal of both the proposed tariffs and the steep softwood lumber tariffs.
Maritime premiers are on edge as the extended U.S. tariff deadline approaches, with the forestry sector bracing for potential 50% tariffs.16
New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt expressed optimism, stating, “We are expecting to see tariff reductions, and once the details have been finalized and shared, we will weigh-in on the deal for New Brunswick.”3
Meanwhile, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston indicated a willingness to compromise, saying, “If the federal government asks you to do something that’s good for the country, then you take that and you move forward with that.”2
The forestry sector, already impacted by a rise in softwood lumber duties to 35% last year, is particularly anxious.
Derek Nighbor, CEO of the Forest Products Association of Canada, noted, “The hits have kept coming since then.” He hopes for a deal that removes both the proposed tariffs and the existing softwood lumber tariffs.7
Local residents have mixed feelings, with some expressing support for the government's handling of the situation, while others are frustrated with the tariffs.
“Don’t like the tariffs. Don’t like Donald,” said local resident Carol Armstrong.
As the deadline looms, the Maritime provinces remain hopeful for a resolution that could stabilize the forestry industry and improve trade relations.
“N.B. Premier Susan Holt went backcountry camping Friday, remaining out of the spotlight with hours before the deadline, while Nova Scotia's Tim Houston said he's willing to put U.S. alcohol back on shelves. Derek Nighbor of the Forest Products Association of Canada hopes a deal removes both proposed and softwood lumber tariffs.”
