VANCOUVER — West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. says it has entered into a new US$500-million loan agreement, maturing in 2029. The company says some of the proceeds will be used to retire its existing US$300-million loan term due in 2028. West Fraser CEO Sean McLaren says entering into the new loan term strengthens the company’s near-term liquidity position, providing more financial flexibility. The company also declared a dividend of 32 cents US per share, unchanged from the dividend it declared in June. Canadian forestry companies have been dealing with a difficult backdrop, with tariffs weighing on bottom lines. Earlier this month, B.C. forestry groups wrote to Premier David Eby saying the industry is at a “breaking point” and calling for urgent action to address challenges ranging from slow-moving provincial processes to steep U.S. tariffs. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 16, 2026.
