NEWS

President Trump has ordered the U.S. Trade Representative to begin placing additional tariffs on Chinese imports under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 that are not already subject to these duties. The USTR indicated that "essentially all" imports from China not yet subject to Section 301 duties would be affected. Antidumping and countervailing duty orders are not affected.

Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead

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China immediately announced that it will raise tariffs on U.S. goods worth $60 billion, effective June 1. Tariffs on lumber, logs, and veneer will increase, varying by species. The U.S. exported $1.314 billion in hardwood lumber, $533 million in hardwood logs, and $6 million in hardwood veneer to China in 2018.

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Decorative Hardwoods Association (formerly HPVA) eNews Volume XII, Issue IX: American Kitchen Cabinets Win First Step Against China | ITC Releases Economic Impact Of U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement | China's & Vietnam's Exports To The U.S.

NAHB researchers reported that most home buyers and owners prefer white kitchen cabinets, followed by medium and dark brown. A survey of companies exhibiting at February's Kitchen and Bath Industry Show revealed that frameless cabinets and paint finishes are leading trends.

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China’s exports to the U.S. soared 14.2% in March, far exceeding the predicted increase of 7.3%. Imports fell 7.6%, suggesting domestic demand remains weak. In March, China's trade surplus with the U.S. was $32.64 billion.