Canada challenges U.S. softwood lumber duties

September 1, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Today the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, issued the following statement regarding the U.S. fourth administrative reviews on softwood lumber from Canada.

“Canada is a world leader in softwood lumber and has a vast industry creating good, well-paying jobs for thousands of Canadians and supporting communities across our country.

“For years, the United States has imposed unfair, unjust and illegal duties on Canadian softwood lumber, hurting Canadian industry and creating rising housing costs in both our countries.

“Current U.S. softwood lumber duties have subjected most Canadian softwood lumber exports to the new combined duty rate of 7.99%.

“Canada is launching challenges to the latest U.S. countervailing duty determination under (CUSMA) Chapter 10 and to the latest U.S. anti-dumping duty determination before the U.S. Court of International Trade.

“At every opportunity, I have raised the issue of unjustified U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumber with my U.S. counterpart Katherine Tai, United States Trade Representative, and the need for both countries to find a mutually acceptable resolution to this dispute.

“Canada continues to remain ready and willing to discuss a negotiated outcome to the dispute that provides the stability and predictability the sector needs to ensure its continued growth and success.”