#USA #Washington, D.C. #Engineered Wood #Hardwood Plywood #Decorative Hardwoods

Industry Leaders Advocate for Tariffs on Hardwood Imports

On October 1, a coalition of nine CEOs from American hardwood manufacturing firms addressed a crucial concern in the industry: the overwhelming influx of imported hardwood products that threatens over 100,000 U.S. manufacturing jobs. They specifically urged President Trump to include hardwood plywood, engineered wood flooring, and hardwood veneer in the Section 232 tariffs on wood products. This plea comes in light of increasing competition from dumped and subsidized imports that make it nearly impossible for American manufacturers to compete sustainably.

Jeremy Manthei, CEO of Manthei Wood Products, a family-owned company based in Petoskey, Michigan, emphasized the urgent need for action. "President Trump, you have been a strong champion for U.S. workers. We respectfully request that you add hardwood plywood, engineered wood flooring, and hardwood veneer to the Section 232 wood product tariffs," he stated. Manthei expressed concern that unfair trade practices are not only harming mill workers and loggers but also endangering the economic stability of rural communities across states like Michigan and Wisconsin. The decline in local mills is staggering; in recent years, the region has dropped from 17 veneer mills to just four, signifying a dramatic loss of livelihoods.

Further elaborating on this issue, Greg Pray, President and CEO of Columbia Forest Products—an employee-owned hardwood manufacturer in Greensboro, North Carolina—shared similar sentiments. He revealed how the company has invested millions in fighting against unfair trade practices, particularly concerning Chinese competition. However, he noted that these challenges persist as production often shifts to allied countries to evade tariffs. He urged, "Section 232 tariffs on hardwood plywood from these allied Asian countries would be a lifeline to struggling mills in rural communities throughout the United States."

The repercussions of unchecked imports can be seen in real-time within the industry, with companies like Roseburg Forest Products shutting down operations due to an inability to compete with such a daunting percentage of imported goods that now dominates 80% of the U.S. market. These manufacturers not only provide essential products but also form the backbone of local economies, contributing to employment and community well-being.

The Decorative Hardwoods Association (DHA), responsible for representing significant segments of the hardwood industry in the U.S., has been vocal about these challenges. Founded in 1921, the DHA produces 90% of hardwood plywood and hardwood veneer stock panels in North America, serving as a key advocate for the industry's interests. This collective effort aims to unify manufacturers to confront the challenges posed by international competitors.

With the current administration’s focus on job creation and protection of American industries, these industry leaders remain hopeful that their message resonates with the White House, emphasizing that immediate action is necessary to prevent further job losses and sustain the integrity of the hardwood manufacturing sector. There is a poignant reminder among many in this industry that livelihoods and the futures of entire communities hinge on a fair playing field and equitable trade practices for American-made products. In summary, the call for action is not merely about tariffs; it is about preserving jobs, local economies, and the very essence of American manufacturing in the face of growing global competition.