New Zealand\u2019s high-value timber sector faces potential disruption if the US government imposes tariffs on its exports, industry officials said.<\/p>\n
October 10 has been set as the deadline for a US decision on whether to impose duties on specialty wood products, currently exported tariff-free. Mark Ross, CEO of the Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association (WPMA), said the sector has seen robust growth, with exports to the United States rising 30% over the past five years and now valued at nearly US$400 million annually.<\/p>\n
President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that a major investigation into wooden furniture imports will conclude within 50 days, with tariff rates yet to be determined.<\/p>\n
Ross said the announcement has raised concerns in the industry, noting precedent with aluminum and steel, which faced tariffs of up to 50%. \u201cWe have seen aluminum and steel face 50% tariffs, that is how high they can get,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The high-grade furniture affected differs from structural framing timber targeted in previous US tariffs against Canadian products. It is used for moldings and finishings, leveraging New Zealand\u2019s tree-pruning practices to deliver clear, premium wood.<\/p>\n
WPMA officials raised the issue with New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay during a visit to the United States last week. \u201cIt was given a high priority by the minister and his officials,\u201d Ross said, \u201cbut he did leave the meeting appearing somewhat deflated.\u201d<\/p>\n
US customers of New Zealand timber, including Home Depot, Lowes and Menards, have expressed strong support for the products. The National Association of Homebuilders has lobbied against tariffs, warning that duties could increase construction costs for American homebuilders.<\/p>\n
Smaller mills across Northland, Taranaki and the central North Island would also be affected if tariffs are introduced. The sector is already facing closures, including Winstone Pulp in the central North Island and Eve\u2019s Valley mill in Tasman.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
New Zealand\u2019s high-value timber sector faces potential disruption if the US government imposes tariffs on its exports, industry officials said. October 10 has been set as the deadline for a US decision on whether to impose duties on specialty wood … Continue reading