Trump Orders Lumber Import Investigation, Paving Way for Potential Tariffs

The executive actions aim to boost domestic timber production and address national security concerns tied to foreign lumber imports.

President Trump signed executive orders directing the Commerce Department to investigate the impact of lumber imports on U.S. national security under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962.
The investigation will assess whether countries like Canada, Brazil, and Germany are engaging in predatory trade practices, including subsidized lumber exports and dumping goods into U.S. markets.
Trump has floated the possibility of a 25% tariff on lumber imports, which would be added to existing duties, raising concerns about higher construction and housing costs.
The orders also call for streamlining timber production on public lands by reducing regulatory barriers and expediting permits to increase domestic lumber supply.
Critics, including homebuilders, warn that additional tariffs could exacerbate housing affordability issues, as the U.S. remains reliant on imported lumber to meet demand.