Leaders in the U.S. lumber industry are lobbying the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. International Trade Commission to put import duties on Canadian softwood lumber.
They claim the product is being sold in the U.S. below fair market value. Canadian software lumber imports were up 33% in the first eight months of this year compared to same period of 2015, according to U.S. industry representatives.
The duties are now required to offset the harm caused to U.S. lumber mills by Canadian softwood subsidies and the alleged dumping of that product in the U.S., according to U.S. lumber industry leaders. The lobbying effort is likely to further strain trade relations between U.S. and Canadian lumber industries.
A bilateral trade deal between the U.S. and Canada regarding Canadian lumber exports expired in October 2015. The two sides were unable to negotiate a new softwood lumber agreement over the summer following 100 days of discussions.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jul 27, 2021
Add a wobbly moon to flooding risk factors
Earth satellite’s orbit variations will lead to sunny-day flooding in the mid-2030s.
Codes and Standards | Jul 26, 2021
Revamping of Florida building codes on the table after condo collapse
Tragedy could prompt upgrades like post-Hurricane Andrew effort.
Codes and Standards | Jul 21, 2021
Proposal to give Calif. hospitals more time for earthquake retrofits stirs controversy
State hospital association says 2030 deadline should be extended.
Codes and Standards | Jul 20, 2021
New York, New Jersey legislatures may revamp bidding rules to promote low-carbon concrete
Contractors would have to certify that their concrete is in compliance.
Codes and Standards | Jul 19, 2021
Lack of information on carbon emissions challenges construction industry
Reports recommends whole-life carbon assessments on building projects.
Codes and Standards | Jul 19, 2021
Florida condo collapse spurs increased scrutiny on inspections, regulations
Insurers demand proof of current inspections.
Codes and Standards | Jul 15, 2021
Three drywall code-referenced publications have been updated
Include guidance on fire resistance, sound control, application, and finishing.
Codes and Standards | Jul 14, 2021
Biden’s infrastructure proposal includes massive investment in school buildings
‘Once in a lifetime opportunity’ to upgrade HVAC and other key systems.
Codes and Standards | Jul 13, 2021
Reluctance to fund maintenance on older condos is a serious problem
Owner associations defer needed work, putting properties at risk.
Codes and Standards | Jul 12, 2021
Regulations on hydrofluorocarbons reduce roof insulation options
Canada, some U.S. states ban HFC blowing agents used in closed-cell foam.