Located north of the Capitale-Nationale region, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean is built around the massive inland sea of Lac Saint-Jean and the deep waters of the Saguenay Fjord. The region is a major player in heavy industry, utilizing its abundant hydroelectric capacity to drive global exports in metal and wood products.
Aluminum Production: The region is officially recognized as Quebec’s “Aluminum Valley.” Anchored by major multinational operators like Rio Tinto, it is a global leader in the smelting and processing of low-carbon aluminum. This massive output is supported by an extensive, highly specialized network of equipment manufacturers and engineering firms.
Forestry & Wood Processing: With immediate access to vast tracts of boreal forest, the area has long-standing expertise in lumber, pulp, and paper. The sector continues to modernize heavily, focusing on engineered wood products, biomass energy, and sustainable forest management.
Agri-Food & Regional Products: The flat, fertile lands surrounding Lac Saint-Jean sustain a highly productive agricultural sector. The region is particularly strong in dairy farming and is globally recognized as the world’s largest producer of wild blueberries, which feeds directly into a specialized local food processing and export industry.
