Ontario's wood products industry produces a broad range of primary and secondary forest products and is one of the most important and substantial contributors to the provincial economy, in both northern and southern Ontario.
Wood products produced in the commodity and value-added sectors and production help support a variety of service-based industries. The key commodity wood products are softwood lumber, structural panels, and engineered wood products. Value-added wood products such as millwork (doors and windows), manufactured housing, furniture, and cabinets also make up a significant portion of Ontario's wood manufacturing industry. In 2003, direct employment in Ontario's wood products and value-added wood manufacturing sector was estimated at 45,000. In 2002, direct employment in Ontario’s wood products and value-added wood manufacturing sector was estimated at over 45,000. These jobs contribute significantly to employment and the vitality of communities throughout northern and southern Ontario.
