Ottawa Dropped Appeals on U.S. Softwood Lumber Duties
Rubber and Wood | 2025-09-24 12:08:24
The strategic move is aimed at maximising long-term interests and prospects for a negotiated resolution with the U.S., the statement said.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Long-standing challenges of U.S. anti-dumping reviews on softwood lumber were withdrawn by Canada. These reviews are from the past ten years.
Why did Ottawa decide not to pursue the appeals?
In a media statement issued yesterday, Global Affairs Canada spokeswoman Dina Destin noted that the decision to drop the appeals was made after thorough consultations with industry stakeholders, major partners and provincial government authorities. The strategic move is aimed at maximising long-term interests and prospects for a negotiated resolution with the U.S., the statement said.
Has the priorities changed? Not Really!
The Canadian officials stated that resolving sector-specific tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump should take precedence over seeking a more comprehensive trade and security pact with the United States. It should be mentioned that Canada is still pursuing six appeals related to the U.S. administration's increased tariffs on Canadian lumber imports. Ottawa's argument that U.S. anti-dumping tariffs on softwood lumber are unjust was restated by the authorities.
Federal aid package comes to rescue of the industry
Prime Minister Mark Carney recently announced a C$1.2 billion softwood lumber aid plan, which includes $500 million in grants and contributions and $700 million in loan guarantees, to boost the local industry. The funds are intended to increase domestic consumption and assist businesses in expanding into markets outside of the United States.
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POLL
Canada withdrew certain appeals on U.S. softwood lumber duties. What’s your take?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the strategic significance of withdrawing these appeals?
- By withdrawing certain appeals, Canada seeks to focus on practical, sector-specific resolutions with the U.S., potentially facilitating negotiations while still preserving its stance against unfair tariffs.
- Is Canada still challenging U.S. tariffs on softwood lumber?
- Yes. Canada continues to pursue six appeals related to the U.S. administration’s increased tariffs on Canadian lumber imports and maintains that the anti-dumping tariffs are unjust.
- Why did Ottawa decide not to pursue these appeals?
- According to Global Affairs Canada, the decision followed thorough consultations with industry stakeholders, provincial governments, and major partners. The move aims to maximize long-term interests and improve prospects for a negotiated resolution with the U.S.
