#USA #Washington #Trump Tariff #American Kitchen Cabinet Alliance #Cabinet Manufacturing

The American Kitchen Cabinet Alliance's Commendation on Tariffs

On September 28, 2025, the American Kitchen Cabinet Alliance (AKCA) expressed strong support for President Trump’s recent decision to implement a staggering 50% tariff on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and associated products. This move, resulting from an investigation under Section 232, is aimed at shielding domestic cabinet manufacturers from the harmful impacts of unfair foreign competition, which the AKCA argues threatens approximately 250,000 American jobs in the cabinetry sector.

A Bold Leadership Decision

In their statements, AKCA officials did not hold back in praising President Trump. John Gahm, the President of Kitchen Kompact Inc., emphasized that this decision signifies a historic moment for the American cabinet industry. He stated, “Without President Trump and his team at the U.S. Department of Commerce taking decisive action, our more than $14 billion industry would be wiped out. This tariff will unleash a new Golden Age for domestic cabinetry manufacturing.”

Edwin Underwood, the President and COO of Marsh Furniture Company, echoed these sentiments, referring to the move as a ‘game changer’ that will allow for an increase in domestic cabinet production in North Carolina and beyond. He framed President Trump's actions as a step toward ensuring U.S. national and economic security, noting the ambition to 'Make Cabinetry Great Again'.

Support from Industry Leaders

Stephen Wellborn, Co-Owner of Wellborn Cabinet, also commended the president’s actions, highlighting the importance of the cabinet industry to small towns across America. He pointed out the support received from U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville, who have rallied behind the cabinet manufacturing workforce in Alabama, reinforcing the significance of community and industry ties in maintaining job security.

The essence of the tariff is not only about economics but about preserving jobs for American workers in an industry that has faced significant pressure from imported goods. For many in the industry, the implementation of this tariff is seen as a necessary step to restore equitable competition.

The Path Forward for American Cabinetry

As this new tariff comes into effect, it represents the beginning of a critical phase for the cabinet manufacturing sector in the United States. The AKCA, founded in 2019, is a coalition of organizations committed to advocating for American cabinet workers and dignifying the craft of cabinetry against unfair trade practices from countries like Cambodia, Malaysia, Mexico, Thailand, and Vietnam. Their mission is to establish a fairer marketplace where American manufacturers can thrive.

Industry leaders believe that this tariff will enable the American cabinet industry to compete on a more level playing field, allowing them to safeguard jobs and reinforce domestic manufacturing capabilities. As the fallout from these trade decisions unfolds, the AKCA and its supporters are prepared to champion local manufacturers and push back against foreign competition.

Conclusion

The new 50% tariff on kitchen cabinet imports represents a significant shift in the economic landscape for the American cabinetry sector. With the backing of key industry figures and politicians, the AKCA and its advocates are optimistic that this bold action will lead to revitalization within the industry, preserving jobs and ensuring that American craftsmanship continues to flourish. As the conversation around domestic manufacturing and trade continues, the cabinet industry stands at a critical juncture, poised for growth and stability.