Canadian Wood Industry Demands Urgent Tariffs After Import Probe Launch

Earlier this month, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne directed the Canadian International Trade Tribunal to open an inquiry into global imports of wood cabinets and vanities, hardwood flooring, and storage furniture. The tribunal has 270 days to decide if rising imports are causing or threatening serious injury to Canadian wood product manufacturers and to make recommendations to the government on next steps. Canadian wood manufacturers are welcoming the inquiry but say it must be followed by tariffs on foreign-made goods entering Canada. The Canadian Wood Products Alliance says it appreciates the government's recognition but says it is not enough without tariffs. It warns tens of thousands of Canadians depend on the industry, and job losses and business closures have already begun. It adds more, it will follow if tariffs are not implemented immediately.