Vancouver, B.C. – The British Columbia Lumber Trade Council (BCLTC) expressed deep disappointment today following the United States government’s decision to impose additional tariffs of 10 percent on Canadian softwood lumber under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act.

This action comes despite the fact that Canadian lumber has never posed a national security risk to the United States. Canada is a trusted ally and a secure supplier, and U.S. producers already meet most of the domestic demand. Canadian exports simply fill the gap that U.S. production cannot cover, ensuring stability in the marketplace and preventing supply shortages that would harm American consumers.

“Imposing new tariffs under Section 232 is misguided and unnecessary. These tariffs will not improve U.S. national security — they will only drive-up lumber costs, making housing even less affordable for American families and undermining the integrated trade relationship that benefits both our countries.” – Kurt Niquidet, President, BC Lumber Trade Council

Canadian lumber producers already face antidumping and countervailing duties of just over 35 percent. With the addition of Section 232 tariffs, Canadian softwood lumber entering the U.S. will now face import taxes exceeding 45 percent. This will impose needless strain on the North American market, threaten jobs on both sides of the border, and make it harder to address the housing supply crisis in the United States.

BCLTC members remain committed to providing responsibly sourced, high-quality lumber to the U.S. market and will continue to advocate for a fair, durable, and negotiated solution to the softwood lumber dispute.

For decades, the Canada–U.S. lumber trade has supported jobs, economic growth, and affordable housing on both sides of the border. Today’s decision risks disrupting that partnership at a time when stability and affordability are needed most.

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Media Contact: media@bclumbertrade.com