According to the latest data from Statistics Canada, the sector’s total revenues decreased by 4.9% compared to 2022, standing at $11.7 billion.
The Canadian logging industry saw a decline in 2023, following two consecutive years of growth.
Logging-specific revenues, excluding secondary sources, fell 4.4% to $10.9 billion.
Source: Statistics Canada
Impact on spending and employment
The sector’s contraction also affected expenses, which declined faster than revenues. Total spending fell 5.3% to $11.1 billion, representing 95 cents for every dollar of revenue.
Costs for materials and supplies fell slightly by 1.1%, while expenses for energy, water supply and fuel decreased by 1.0%.
The sector also saw a reduction in its payroll, with a 2.9% drop in wages and salaries, totaling $1.7 billion.
Source: Statistics Canada
Regional disparities
The situation varies considerably depending on the provinces. British Columbia, the main player in the sector, recorded the largest decline with a decrease of $714.2 million in revenue.
In contrast, Alberta, Quebec and Ontario saw increases of $111.1 million, $96.2 million and $39.1 million, respectively.
This evolution of the Canadian forestry sector is part of a broader context where the industry contributes significantly to the national economy. In 2022, the forestry sector represented 1.2% of Canada’s nominal GDP and employed 212,660 people.
Despite this decline, the forestry industry remains an important pillar of the Canadian economy, particularly in rural regions where it often constitutes the main source of jobs and income.
More information: link to Statistics Canada
