NOMA Sees Lumber Tariffs Posing Significant Threat to Region’s Economy

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA) warned that the proposed U.S. softwood lumber tariffs will pose a significant threat, not only to the region’s economy, but also to the well-being of communities across Northwestern and Northern Ontario. It must be noted that the tariffs are set to more than double starting this July.

In communities like Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances, Atikokan, Ignace, Greenstone, and Thunder Bay, the forest industry sustains thousands of employment, according to NOMA President Rick Dumas. Forestry serves as the foundation of the economies of many localities.

Dumas urged state and federal government officials to take immediate action to protect the timber sector from tariff threats. While acknowledging Prime Minister Carney's efforts to communicate with U.S. officials, Dumas said the situation requires constant and urgent attention. NOMA also offered its assistance to the areas it serves.

The U.S. Department of Commerce declared in early April of this year that it will apply a combined anti-dumping and countervailing duty rate of 34.4% on Canadian softwood lumber, which is significantly higher than the 14.5% rate now in place.

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