CANADA - The Ministry of International Development announced a USD 1.5-million contribution to Roseburg Forest Products Canada for the installation of robotic equipment to enhance their medium-density fibreboard (MDF) plant.

The contribution comes through the Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) program, which facilitates the adoption of innovative technologies and products and aims to create a more competitive forest sector with a focus on low-carbon projects that result in new or diversified revenue streams. Roseburg Forest Products Canada also received a contribution of USD 1.5 million through Ontario’s Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program.

The project will see the installation and production of two MDF moulding lines with custom-made robotized stacking, packaging and labelling stations. The new technology will increase the plant’s capacity, improve safety and “upskill” 18 jobs into specialized positions, such as robot operators.

The investment aims to reduce Canada's reliance on foreign MDF producers while stimulating economic activity and job security in rural Ontario. By utilizing local facility byproducts in the manufacturing process, Roseburg Forest Products Canada demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and circular economy practices.

In 2018, Roseburg Forest Products, headquartered in Oregon, made its inaugural international acquisition by purchasing the medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and molding production facilities located in Pembroke, Canada.