NEWS

The U.S. government announced that it will allow companies to defer paying tariffs on many imported goods for 90 days. The deferral doesn't apply to antidumping or countervailing duties or to punitive tariffs on Chinese goods.

Resource:

The Fence Post: Trump deferral of some tariffs leads to call for more

Furniture importer Blue Furniture Solutions and its successor company will pay more than $5 million for violating the False Claims Act. The U.S. government alleges that CEO Yingqing Zeng and CFO Alex Cheng conspired to avoid paying millions of dollars in antidumping duties and customs fees by describing wood furniture imported from China as "metal" or "non-bedroom" furniture.

Resources:

Decorative Hardwoods Association (formerly HPVA) eNews Volume XIII, Issue VIII: New IRS Guidance Provides More Tax Relief Under CARES Act | More Government Resources & Assistance | Coronavirus Impact On Wood Industry Will Continue Into 2021 | Some Woodworking Companies Now Make Healthcare Products

Official Photo © D. Myles Cullen

Hillcrest Cabinets is using its 3D printer to make face shields. Urban Plough Furniture has started building intubation boxes for healthcare workers. Steelcase, Herman Miller, and Stylex Furniture are all making face masks. Best Damn Doors in Canada is making anti-virus protective gear.

Resource:

Decorative Hardwoods Association (formerly HPVA) eNews Volume XIII, Issue VII: Coronavirus Update: China Announces It's Back To Work | DHS Declares Forest Products Vital, Our Supply Chains Essential | U.S. Cabinet Industry Wins At The ITC | Canada Ratifies USMCA