MPs call on owner of pulp and paper firm to testify on links to controversial company

The Natural Resources committee of Parliament made a unanimous decision on Monday to request the presence of Jackson Wijaya, the owner of Paper Excellence, for testimony. This decision follows the recent news that Wijaya will be taking sole control of Asia Pulp and Paper, a controversial pulp and paper giant, from his father.

New Democrat MP Charlie Angus emphasized the importance of hearing from Wijaya and Canadian government officials who previously denied any connection between Asia Pulp and Paper and Paper Excellence, now known as Domtar. Angus expressed concerns about Asia Pulp and Paper’s environmental track record and raised suspicions about the creation of Paper Excellence as a means for the Wijaya family to enter the Canadian forestry industry.

Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne has been called upon to appear before the committee regarding Wijaya’s ownership of both Canada’s largest pulp and paper company and the Indonesian-Chinese giant, APP. Despite the government’s assertion that they have no jurisdiction over Wijaya’s ownership, the committee is determined to seek answers.

This is not the first time that the committee has requested Wijaya’s testimony, as he previously sent company executives to testify on his behalf. However, with the recent developments of Wijaya assuming control of APP, the committee is eager to have him address their concerns directly.

While Paper Excellence maintains that it operates independently from APP, recent notifications to the European Commission indicate a transfer of control from Wijaya’s father to himself. The company has downplayed this as a routine succession plan within the Wijaya family.

Despite assurances from Domtar, the company that now owns Paper Excellence, about addressing government inquiries, it remains unclear whether Wijaya will testify before the committee. Angus has expressed readiness to issue a subpoena if necessary to compel Wijaya’s appearance.

Angus also highlighted allegations that Paper Excellence may be supplying wood fibre to China, raising questions about the company’s motives and management of Canadian operations. He criticized Canadian officials for failing to acknowledge the connection between Paper Excellence and APP, emphasizing the importance of understanding any potential environmental implications.

As the committee presses for answers and transparency from Wijaya and government officials, the implications of his control over both Paper Excellence and APP remain a subject of concern and scrutiny.