TL;DR
US President Donald Trump has introduced new tariffs on imported lumber, timber, and furniture. Starting October 14, a 10% tariff will apply to lumber and timber, and 25% to cabinets and furniture. These tariffs will increase on January 1 to 30% for some wood products and 50% for cabinets, citing national security concerns. The move affects major suppliers like Canada, Mexico, and Vietnam.
New tariffs on lumber and furniture set to begin in mid-October
President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on imported wood and furniture products on September 29. The tariffs will begin at 12:01 a.m. EDT on October 14. The initial rates are 10% on timber and lumber and 25% on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and upholstered furniture. These tariffs are part of Trump’s broader trade policies targeting several sectors.
Tariffs to increase significantly in January
The tariffs are set to rise on January 1, 2026. Wood products like upholstered furniture will face 30% duties, while kitchen cabinets and vanities will see a 50% tariff. The higher rates apply to imports from countries that do not reach trade agreements with the US. These actions use Section 232 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows tariffs for national security reasons.
Reason for tariffs cited as threat to US national security
The White House claims that imported wood products weaken the US domestic industry and threaten the country’s ability to supply materials important for national defense. Wood is used in critical infrastructure, military housing, transport of munitions, and missile defense systems, according to the presidential proclamation.
Impact on trading partners including Canada, Mexico, and Vietnam
Canada is the largest supplier of softwood lumber to the US and already faces tariffs of about 35% due to ongoing trade disputes. The new tariffs add pressure on Canadian producers, who have received government aid to handle past duties. Mexico and Vietnam, which export a growing share of wooden furniture to the US, will also be affected. The tariffs build on previous duties targeting Chinese furniture imports.
Some countries get tariff relief but others remain uncertain
Trump’s proclamation offers lower tariff rates for countries with existing trade agreements. For example, the UK will face a 10% cap on wood product tariffs, while the European Union and Japan will be capped at 15%. However, countries like Vietnam, which have informal tariff agreements, were not mentioned clearly, leaving some uncertainty.
Business groups oppose tariffs on wood products
The US Chamber of Commerce has opposed these tariffs, arguing that lumber and related products do not threaten national security. They warn that tariffs will increase costs for US businesses and consumers and hurt industries such as home construction and paper production.
FAQs
Q: When do the new tariffs on lumber and furniture imports begin? A: The tariffs start on October 14, 2025, with higher rates set to begin on January 1, 2026.
Q: Why did President Trump impose tariffs on these wood products? A: The administration says the tariffs are needed to protect US national security and support the domestic wood industry.
Q: Which countries are most affected by the new tariffs? A: Canada, Mexico, and Vietnam are among the main countries impacted by the increased duties on lumber and furniture imports.
