The BC Lumber Trade Council (BCLTC) is deeply disappointed by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s preliminary decision to more than double countervailing duties on imports of Canadian softwood lumber from 6.74 per cent to 14.38 per cent. Combined with commerce’s preliminary decision earlier this year to increase anti-dumping duties to 20.07 per cent, this could bring the total combined duty rate to 34.45 per cent this fall if commerce maintains these rates in its final results.
British Columbia does not subsidize its lumber industry, said Kurt Niquidet, President of the BC Lumber Trade Council. Timber in B.C. is sold through a transparent, market-based system. Claims that B.C.’s system provides an unfair advantage are simply not supported by the facts. Commerce continues to employ flawed and misleading methodologies, resulting in the higher rates that were announced.
“These duties are unjustified and harmful,” said Niquidet. “Our stumpage system is grounded in market principles, with timber sold through open, competitive auctions.”
The council urges commerce to reverse this preliminary decision in its final results. If implemented, these rates will hurt workers and communities on both sides of the border and drive-up lumber prices for American consumers. BCLTC remains committed to fair, fact-based trade and will continue working with partners to defend Canada’s forestry sector.