HS Code:
Softwood lumber products, as described in U.S. note 13 to subchapter III of Chapter 44 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), refer to specific types of coniferous wood products primarily used in construction, such as framing lumber, structural panels, and other building materials. This category includes products originating from the Canadian provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan, which are key regions for softwood lumber production due to their vast forest resources and established forestry industries. These products are subject to specific trade agreements and tariff considerations under U.S.-Canada trade frameworks, including the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) and historical softwood lumber agreements.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 14.5 billion board feet
Data from 2022
Source
U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and Statistics Canada
14.2 billion board feet
98% of total exports from specified Canadian provinces of total trade
Increasing
0.15 billion board feet
1% of total exports from specified Canadian provinces of total trade
Stable
0.1 billion board feet
0.7% of total exports from specified Canadian provinces of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
Approximately 9% combined countervailing and anti-dumping duties (as of 2022)
Highest Rate
Up to 24.12% for certain Canadian producers under U.S. Department of Commerce rulings
Lowest Rate
0% for exempt producers or under specific quota agreements
Increased demand for construction materials in the U.S.
Higher export volumes from Canadian provinces to meet U.S. housing market needs, though tempered by tariff costs.
2021-2022
Fluctuating softwood lumber prices
Significant price volatility due to supply chain disruptions and U.S. housing starts, affecting profitability for exporters.
2020-2022
Sustainability and certification requirements
Growing emphasis on sustainable forestry practices influencing production and trade policies in Canada and export markets.
2019-2022
The U.S. Department of Commerce completed its administrative review of countervailing and anti-dumping duties on Canadian softwood lumber, adjusting rates for producers in Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan.
November 2022
Mixed impact with some producers facing higher duties, potentially reducing competitiveness, while others received lower rates.
A dispute panel under the USMCA ruled on certain aspects of U.S. duties on Canadian softwood lumber, urging reconsideration of calculation methodologies.
August 2021
Potential for reduced duties or renegotiated terms, though implementation remains pending further bilateral discussions.
Provinces like Quebec and Ontario announced increased investment in sustainable forestry practices to align with international certification standards.
March 2023
May improve market access and reduce trade barriers related to environmental concerns in key export markets like the U.S.