(Vancouver) The BC Lumber Trade Council (BCLTC) strongly opposes the U.S. Department of Commerce’s preliminary decision to increase anti-dumping duties on Canadian softwood lumber to 20.07%. This unjustified move will negatively impact forestry workers and communities in British Columbia, while further burdening homebuilders, consumers, and the broader construction sector in the United States.

“It is deeply disappointing that the U.S. continues to impose these protectionist trade measures” said Kurt Niquidet, President of the BC Lumber Trade Council. “The fact remains that the United States relies on Canadian softwood lumber imports and these duties will harm not only the B.C. forestry industry, but also U.S. consumers, who will bear some of the cost”. Ongoing rebuilding efforts in North Carolina and California, where affordable and reliable lumber is critical to recovery, will be more expensive as a result of this decision.

The BCLTC remains committed to advocating for fair trade and urges the U.S. government to work towards a negotiated solution that benefits all stakeholders. Canada has a long-standing and reliable history as a key supplier of softwood lumber to the U.S., providing high-quality products for home construction and renovation.

“We will continue to defend our industry against these baseless duties through all available avenues, including legal challenges” added Mr. Niquidet. “A fair and lasting resolution to the softwood lumber dispute is in both countries' best interest.”

The BC Lumber Trade Council will closely monitor developments and work alongside the Canadian government and industry partners to challenge this latest trade action.

Kurt Niquidet
President
Media contact: +1 778-846-3465
Email: media@bclumbertrade.com