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In the previous issue, we reported on the Department of Commerce's recent finding that U.S. imports of hardwood plywood from Vietnam circumvented duties. Recent import data highlights the potential impact of this ruling; as you'll see, imports of hardwood plywood from Vietnam are up by more than 90% this year through June. Now, most of these imports will be subject to tariffs of more than 200% as a result of the Department of Commerce's ruling. Imports from Russia—the U.S.’s third largest source of hardwood plywood—have slowed dramatically since tariffs were imposed in April. Imports from Russia were up 66% through March, but up only 2% through June.

Imports from China and Vietnam have also been a big issue for our customers. Cabinet manufacturers have stepped up their advocacy for fair trade in cabinets and in support of the more than 250,000 workers in the industry, rallying a bipartisan group of policymakers to support their efforts after a recent setback at the Department of Commerce.

If you have questions or comments, contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.


Keith A. Christman, President
Decorative Hardwoods Association