BC Cleantech Export Report:
Forest Bioeconomy

Report
April 28, 2025

Exporting BC’s Cleantech Bioeconomy: Market Insights & Global Opportunities

This strategic assessment explores the global market potential of BC’s forest-based cleantech sector. It highlights opportunities, challenges, and international pathways for export growth—guiding BC ventures looking to expand their impact in global markets.

This report was prepared by Foresight Canada and written by Elisabeth Paul with support from Alyssa Kelly, Sandy Ferguson, and Zak Miko. 

Summary

British Columbia’s (BC) forest bioeconomy presents a significant opportunity to position the province as a global leader in sustainable, high-value bioproducts. With an abundant supply of forest biomass, a strong research and innovation ecosystem, and a strategic location on Canada’s West Coast, BC is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing international demand for renewable bio-based solutions. This report examines the export potential of BC’s cleantech sector within the forest bioeconomy, identifying key strengths, market opportunities, and challenges faced by BC companies looking to scale and expand globally.

Objectives

This report assesses the strengths and export potential of BC’s cleantech sector within the forest bioeconomy, highlighting key strategies,
opportunities, and challenges for international expansion. It serves as a guide to help BC cleantech companies in this sector successfully enter foreign markets. Key objectives include:

1

Identifying the core strengths and competitive
advantages of BC’s cleantech sector in the
forest bioeconomy.

2

Providing practical international business
development strategies to help BC cleantech
companies scale and expand into global markets.

3

Highlighting high-potential international
markets and offering targeted
recommendations for cleantech innovators
based on BC’s competitive strengths

Methodology

Information in this report was gathered using a methodology that included a relevant literature review and semi-structured qualitative interviews with key collaborators. Interviews were conducted with BC-based businesses, trade commissioners, and industry experts to gain firsthand insights into the opportunities, challenges, and market entry strategies for BC forest bioeconomy companies in international markets. Additionally, secondary research on trade agreements, regulatory frameworks, and funding opportunities complemented the primary data collection, ensuring a well-round and in-depth analysis.

Four priority international markets were identified and researched in more detail to provide valuable and actionable insights for BC startups interested in exploring these markets.

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